Is the Child Tax Credit refundable?

Yes, part of the Child Tax Credit (CTC) is refundable. That means you can get money back even if you owe no taxes.

How the refundable part works

The Child Tax Credit has a refundable portion called the Additional Child Tax Credit. If this refundable part is larger than the taxes you owe, the IRS sends you the difference as a refund.

This is different from a non-refundable credit, which can only reduce the taxes you owe to zero.

How much is refundable

[VERIFY: What is the current maximum refundable amount and any limits based on earned income?]

Who gets the refundable part

You may qualify for the refundable part if you have a qualifying child and meet income limits. The refundable amount depends on your earned income and tax situation.

Only the IRS can determine if you qualify. Applying is free, and you file through your tax return.

What to do next

If you have a qualifying child, file your tax return even if no one is requiring you to. Include the Child Tax Credit to see if you get a refund. You can file on your own or with help from a tax professional.

If you've already filed and didn't claim the credit, you can file an amended return to claim it.