As a part of the American Rescue Plan enacted in March, Congress expanded the Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) for eligible families, a move that will help many renter households and others in the District make ends meet. The CTC was increased from $2,000 to $3,600 annually for each child under the age of 6, and from $2,000 to $3,000 annually for each child ages 6 to 16. The $3000 annual credit now also applies to each child age 17. Working families headed by a couple who together earn $150,000 or less and a single parent/head of household earning $112,500 or less will get the full credit.

As of July 15, 2021, most families automatically started receiving monthly payments of $250 or $300 per child and do not need to take any action. However, those who did not file a tax return for 2019 or 2020 or did not previously complete the non-filer sign-up may need to sign up to receive the monthly CTC payment.

View the non-filer sign-up form:https://www.whitehouse.gov/child-tax-credit/sign-up/; and here for more information:https://www.whitehouse.gov/child-tax-credit/.