$1,600 IRS Child Tax Refund in 2025: Who Qualifies, How to Claim, and When to Expect It
Thousands of families across the United States could soon receive up to $1,600 per child in financial relief thanks to a key IRS benefit—the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). This refund is part of the broader Child Tax Credit (CTC) program and is specifically aimed at low- and moderate-income families with children under the age of 17.
With inflation and high living costs continuing to impact household budgets, this refund can make a meaningful difference in 2025. Whether you’ve already filed your taxes or are just learning about the credit, here’s what you need to know.
What Is the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)?
The ACTC is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. While the full Child Tax Credit is up to $2,000 per child, only a portion—up to $1,600 in 2025—is refundable. That means even if you don’t owe any federal income tax, you may still be eligible to receive this amount as a cash refund from the IRS.
Who Qualifies for the $1,600 IRS Refund in 2025?
To claim the ACTC, you must meet the following IRS eligibility criteria:
- You must have a child under the age of 17 by December 31, 2024.
- The child must be your biological child, adopted child, stepchild, grandchild, or another qualified dependent.
- The child must have lived with you for at least six months in the year.
- The child must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).
- Your income must fall within the IRS limits to qualify for the full credit. For 2025, this typically means a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) under $200,000 for single filers or $400,000 for married couples filing jointly.
- Even if you’re not required to file a federal tax return because of low income, you can still receive the refund by filing a return. The IRS will not issue the ACTC unless you submit the proper tax forms.
How to Claim the ACTC in Your 2024 Tax Return
To get the Additional Child Tax Credit refund in 2025, you need to:
Complete the Child Tax Credit Worksheet in the instructions for Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
Attach Schedule 8812 to your tax return. This form calculates how much of the Child Tax Credit you can claim as a refund.
File your 2024 tax return electronically and choose direct deposit for faster payment.
Even if you already filed your return without claiming the ACTC, you can file an amended return to add the credit if you qualify.
When Will You Receive the Refund?
Once your tax return is submitted and accepted by the IRS:
The IRS usually processes refunds within 21 days, provided there are no errors or issues requiring review.
Returns with errors, missing forms, or that trigger additional checks may face longer delays.
To track your payment, use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. It’s available 24/7 and lets you check the status of your refund at any time.
Why This Refund Matters for Families in 2025
For many American households, this $1,600 per child refund offers important financial relief. It can be used to help cover essential expenses like food, clothing, rent, child care, or school supplies. And because it’s refundable, families who owe little or no tax still benefit from the credit.
If you’re a parent or guardian of a child under 17, don’t miss this opportunity. Filing your return correctly and including the proper forms could mean receiving thousands of dollars in tax refunds—especially for families with multiple children.
The IRS is currently issuing refunds of up to $1,600 per child under the Additional Child Tax Credit. This benefit is available to eligible families who file their 2024 tax return and complete the necessary forms.
With rising expenses putting pressure on budgets, this refund can bring timely relief to millions of American households. If you haven’t yet filed or were unaware you qualified, now is the time to act—the sooner you file, the sooner you’ll receive your refund.
