Child Tax Credit — Tax Deduction Guide 2026
$2,000 tax credit per qualifying child under age 17 ($1,700 refundable).
Eligibility
Parents with qualifying children under 17
Tax Savings Calculator
Estimated Tax Savings
$2,000
Tax credits reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar.
Savings by Tax Bracket
Requirements
- 1$2,000 per child under 17
- 2$1,700 refundable portion
- 3SSN required for child
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- !Child turning 17
- !Missing SSN requirement
Required Tax Forms
Calculate Your Full Tax Savings
Use our free tax calculators to optimize your entire tax return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Child Tax Credit?
$2,000 tax credit per qualifying child under age 17 ($1,700 refundable).
Who is eligible for the Child Tax Credit?
Parents with qualifying children under 17
How much can I save with the Child Tax Credit?
The average tax savings is $2,000 per year. The maximum deduction is $2,000. Your actual savings depend on your tax bracket and qualifying amount.
What forms do I need for the Child Tax Credit?
You'll need to file Form 1040 and Schedule 8812 to claim this credit.
What are common mistakes with the Child Tax Credit?
Common mistakes include: Child turning 17; Missing SSN requirement. Always double-check requirements before filing.
Is the Child Tax Credit worth claiming?
With average savings of $2,000, the child tax credit is worthwhile for most eligible taxpayers. Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements.
Related Calculators
Child & Dependent Care Credit
Avg savings: $1,200/year
Dependent Care FSA
Avg savings: $1,100/year
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Avg savings: $3,500/year
Adoption Tax Credit
Avg savings: $10,000/year
Alimony Deduction (Pre-2019)
Avg savings: $5,000/year
Head of Household Filing Status
Avg savings: $2,000/year