For families in Daytona Beach and across Volusia County, the Child Tax Credit remains one of the most valuable tools for reducing your federal tax burden. Whether you have one child or several, understanding the current credit amounts, income thresholds, and filing requirements can mean hundreds or even thousands of extra dollars in your pocket each year.
How Much Is the Child Tax Credit Worth in 2025?
For the 2025 tax year, the Child Tax Credit provides up to $2,000 per qualifying child under the age of 17. Of that amount, up to $1,700 is refundable through the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC).
| Credit Component | Amount Per Child | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Child Tax Credit (total) | Up to $2,000 | Partially |
| Additional Child Tax Credit (refundable portion) | Up to $1,700 | Yes |
| Credit for Other Dependents | $500 | No |
Who Qualifies for the Child Tax Credit?
- Age: The child must be under 17 at the end of the tax year.
- Relationship: Your son, daughter, stepchild, foster child, sibling, or descendant.
- Residency: The child must have lived with you for more than half the year.
- Support: The child cannot have provided more than half of their own financial support.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security number.
- Income limits: Phase-out begins at $200,000 (single) or $400,000 (married filing jointly).
Income Phase-Out Details
The credit is reduced by $50 for every $1,000 of income above the threshold.
How to Claim the Child Tax Credit
- Step 1: Complete your Form 1040 and include dependent information.
- Step 2: Fill out Schedule 8812 to calculate your exact credit.
- Step 3: If your credit exceeds your tax liability, the refundable portion is automatically calculated.
Common Mistakes That Reduce Your Credit
- Missing or incorrect Social Security numbers
- Custody confusion — only the parent the child lived with for more than half the year can claim
- Not filing at all — filing is the only way to receive the refundable portion
Combining the CTC With Other Benefits
The Child Tax Credit can be combined with the Earned Income Tax Credit, Florida SNAP benefits, and Medicaid coverage.
See What Benefits You Qualify For
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Start Free Assessment →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim the Child Tax Credit if I have no income?
You must have at least $2,500 in earned income to receive the refundable portion.
What happens to the credit when my child turns 17?
They no longer qualify for the $2,000 CTC but you can still claim the $500 Credit for Other Dependents.
Does the Child Tax Credit affect my SNAP or Medicaid benefits?
No. Tax credit refunds are not counted as income or resources for federal benefit programs for at least 12 months.
Where can I get free tax help in Daytona Beach?
Volusia County has several VITA sites offering free tax preparation. Call 211 or visit the IRS VITA locator tool online.
