The Child Tax Credit (CTC) has been a topic of much debate and concern, especially after the reforms introduced by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. As 2024 begins, many families are curious about the continuation of this tax incentive and the possibility of receiving monthly checks as they did in 2021.
Here, we explain the current status of the CTC for 2024, address questions about monthly checks, and analyze future prospects.
Contrary to what has been circulated online, there is currently no schedule for monthly Child Tax Credit payments of $300 or $250 per child starting in July 2024. The additional CTC program, which allowed families to receive advance monthly payments in 2021, ended in December of that year.
Current status of the child tax credit payments
Currently, the credit taxpayers can claim per child is a non-refundable tax credit of up to $2,000 for each qualifying child, plus a refundable credit of $1,600 under the additional child tax credit. These credits are claimed during the annual tax return process and are not disbursed monthly. It is crucial for families to understand this distinction to plan their financial needs for the coming year accurately.
Although there are no plans to reintroduce the CTC program with monthly payments in 2024, some measures have been taken to restore and expand the program. For 2025, President Biden has proposed a budget that includes the restoration of the 2021 Child Tax Credit, along with the option of monthly checks. However, this proposal faces challenges for approval, particularly in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives.
Additionally, a bill to increase the refundable child tax credit, passed by the House in January 2024, did not advance in the Senate. This highlights that the expansion of the CTC remains an unresolved issue. These legislative activities indicate that the debate over the CTC continues to be an active political concern, even though there is no agreement on its implementation.
What families should know about the future of the child tax credit
The future of the Child Tax Credit remains a top priority on Congress’s legislative agenda. CTC advocates argue that it can reduce child poverty and that monthly checks are crucial for working families. According to a recent report from Politico, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is being urged by his Democratic colleagues to bring a bill to a vote that would increase the Child Tax Credit.
However, the political landscape complicates the discussion, as there is debate over whether such a bill can pass the Senate with the 60 votes needed to overcome a potential filibuster. Consequently, the outcomes of this debate could have significant implications for millions of American families and their children.
Key points about child tax credit payments in 2024
Despite some rumors, it is essential for families to know that there will be no $300 or $250 monthly child tax credit in 2024. The current Child Tax Credit remains an annual tax credit and is not distributed in monthly checks. Despite all the discussions and proposals to increase the CTC or reintroduce monthly payments, any significant change would require new legislation to be passed.
Families should stay informed about these developments by using reliable sources, such as the IRS, regarding tax credits and other benefits. As changes continue and political debates move forward on this issue, the Child Tax Credit could change in the future, but it is currently based on an annual credit structure. Therefore, families should plan their financial situation accordingly and avoid relying on rumors about potential changes to the CTC structure or payments.
In summary, the current state of the Child Tax Credit in 2024 does not include monthly payments, and the credit is claimed annually. While discussions and proposals are ongoing to potentially expand or modify the CTC, these changes are not guaranteed and depend on legislative approval. Families need to stay updated with credible information to manage their expectations and plan their finances effectively.
