How much is the Child Tax Credit worth in 2025 and who qualifies?

For 2025 the Child Tax Credit is up to $2,000 per qualifying child under age 17 at year-end, and up to $1,700 of it is refundable (the Additional Child Tax Credit) if your tax bill is too small to use the full amount. The child needs a Social Security number and must be your dependent who lived with you more than half the year. The credit begins phasing out at modified AGI of $400,000 married filing jointly and $200,000 for everyone else, dropping $50 per $1,000 over the threshold. There's also a separate $500 nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents (for example a college-age child or dependent parent). Because it's a credit, it cuts your tax dollar-for-dollar, not just your taxable income. See wealthserene.com/tools/tax-strategies to see how family credits fit your full picture.