Wilgens Sirise
How Much Will the Child Tax Credit Be in 2026?
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) remains one of the most important tax benefits for families in the United States, helping millions of parents reduce their tax burden each year. As taxpayers begin to plan ahead, many families are asking an important question: How much will the Child Tax Credit be in 2026, and how does the refundable portion work?
Child Tax Credit Amount in 2026
For the 2026 tax year, the Child Tax Credit is expected to return to its pre-pandemic structure, which means the maximum credit per qualifying child will remain up to $2,000. A qualifying child must generally be under the age of 17 at the end of the tax year, have a valid Social Security number, and meet relationship and residency requirements.
While the total credit can be worth up to $2,000 per child, not all of it is refundable, meaning not every family will receive the full amount as a cash refund.
Refundable Portion: $1,700 in 2026
According to the Internal Revenue Service, the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit—also known as the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)—will be $1,700 for 2026, unchanged from 2025.
This refundable amount is crucial for lower- and middle-income families. It allows eligible taxpayers to receive money back even if their total tax liability is less than the credit they qualify for.
For example:
- If a family qualifies for the Child Tax Credit but only owes $800 in federal income taxes, they may still receive a refund of up to $1,700, depending on their income and eligibility.
- If their tax bill is zero, they may still receive part or all of the refundable credit as a refund.
How the Refundable Credit Works
To qualify for the refundable portion, families must have earned income. The refundable credit generally begins to phase in once earned income exceeds $2,500. The refund increases gradually based on income, up to the $1,700 cap per qualifying child.
It is important to note that income limits still apply. The Child Tax Credit begins to phase out for:
- Single filers earning over $200,000
- Married couples filing jointly earning over $400,000
Families above these thresholds may see a reduced or eliminated credit.
Key Takeaways for Families
- Maximum Child Tax Credit (2026): Up to $2,000 per child
- Refundable portion: Up to $1,700 per child
- Unchanged from 2025: Yes
- Refund available even with low or zero tax liability: Yes, if income requirements are met
Final Thoughts
The Child Tax Credit in 2026 continues to provide meaningful financial support to working families, even though it is smaller than the expanded version seen during the pandemic. Understanding how much of the credit is refundable can help families plan better, avoid surprises at tax time, and maximize their refund.
As always, families should review current IRS guidance or consult a qualified tax professional to ensure they receive the full credit they are entitled to.
By . Wilgens Sirise
