What's the difference between the Child Tax Credit and the Credit for Other Dependents?

The Child Tax Credit is the larger, partly refundable credit for a qualifying child under 17 with a Social Security number. The Credit for Other Dependents is a smaller, nonrefundable credit for dependents who do not meet those tests, such as a 17-or-older teen, a college-age child you support, or a qualifying relative like an elderly parent. You cannot claim both for the same person. Both phase out at the same higher-income thresholds the IRS sets. Many families are surprised when a child ages out of the Child Tax Credit at 17 and shifts to the smaller Credit for Other Dependents. Confirm each dependent's status when you file, since it directly changes the credit amount you receive.