How Much Is the Child Tax Credit in 2026?
For tax year 2025 (filed in 2026), the Child Tax Credit offers up to $2,000 per qualifying child under 17. Of that amount, up to $1,700 may be refundable as the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), meaning even if you owe no taxes, you can receive up to $1,700 per child as a direct refund. To qualify, the child must live with you more than half the year, be your dependent, and have a valid Social Security Number.
What Is the EITC and How Much Can You Receive in 2026?
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a credit for workers with low-to-moderate incomes. Maximum amounts for 2026 are: $632 with no children, $4,213 with one child, $6,960 with two children, and $7,830 with three or more children. To qualify, you must have earned income (employment or self-employment), and your total income cannot exceed certain limits based on filing status and number of children. The EITC is fully refundable.
Can You Claim These Credits With an ITIN?
The EITC requires that you, your spouse, and your children all have valid Social Security Numbers — it cannot be claimed with an ITIN. However, the Child Tax Credit has different rules: parents can use an SSN or ITIN, but children must have an SSN. If your children were born in the U.S. and have Social Security Numbers, you may qualify for the CTC even with an ITIN. A professional preparer can review your exact situation.
Common Mistakes That Cause You to Lose These Credits
The most frequent errors include: not claiming all qualifying children, entering a dependent's SSN incorrectly, not reporting all self-employment income, and not claiming the credit because you assume you don't qualify. There are also frequent fraud cases where unscrupulous preparers invent children or income, which can result in severe IRS penalties. That's why it's vital to work with a certified, trustworthy preparer.