$1,700 ACTC Refund Coming in 2025 – How to Claim It, Check Your Status, and Eligibility Criteria

If you’re a parent or caregiver, you know every dollar counts—especially with rising costs everywhere. That’s where the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) comes in. For the 2024 tax year (filed in 2025), eligible families can claim up to $1,700 per qualifying child. It’s money back in your pocket, even if you don’t owe any taxes. Sounds good? Let’s walk through everything you need to know to claim it and get your refund faster.

Overview

The ACTC is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit (CTC). While the standard CTC reduces your tax bill, the ACTC can actually get you a refund—even if you owe nothing. This makes it a game-changer for families who are low-income or have little tax liability.

For 2025, the maximum refund is $1,700 per child. But there are a few boxes you need to tick first.

Eligibility

To claim the ACTC, you and your child need to meet some key requirements:

Child Requirements:

• Under age 17 by December 31 of the tax year
• Your biological, step, adopted, or foster child (or descendant like a grandchild or niece)
• Lived with you for more than half the year
• Didn’t provide more than half their own support
• Must have a valid Social Security Number issued before the return is due

Income Requirements:

• You must have at least $2,500 in earned income
• The refund is calculated as 15% of your income above $2,500, up to $1,700 per child

Phase-Out Limits:

• Starts reducing when your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) hits:
  • $200,000 (single)
  • $400,000 (married filing jointly)

This ensures the credit targets families who need it most.

How to Claim

Claiming the ACTC doesn’t need to be stressful. Just follow these simple steps:

1. File the Right Forms

• Use IRS Form 1040 or 1040-SR (for seniors)
• Attach Schedule 8812 to figure out your ACTC amount

Double-check every section before filing. Mistakes can cause delays.

2. Verify Child Info

Make sure each child’s name and Social Security Number match IRS records. Birth certificates and school records can help if there are questions.

3. Do the Math

Here’s how the refund is calculated:

Example: Earned income = $30,000
$30,000 – $2,500 = $27,500
15% of $27,500 = $4,125
Refund is capped at $1,700 per child

So if you have two eligible kids, you could get up to $3,400 back.

4. Choose E-file and Direct Deposit

• E-filing is faster and helps avoid common errors
• Direct Deposit ensures your refund hits your account ASAP
• Double-check your bank info to avoid delays

5. Keep Records

Save a copy of your tax return and related documents just in case the IRS requests more info.

Tracking Your Refund

Because of the PATH Act, refunds for returns claiming the ACTC (or EITC) won’t be issued before mid-February. This law helps the IRS catch fraud and verify income.

Here’s how to track your refund:

• Go to the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool
• Enter your SSN, filing status, and refund amount
• Status updates:
  • 24 hours after e-filing
  • 4 weeks after mailing a paper return

You can also sign up for alerts via email or text.

If your refund takes longer than expected, don’t panic—just call the IRS or visit their website for help. Sometimes, minor errors or missing documents can hold things up.

The $1,700 ACTC refund in 2025 offers a much-needed boost for millions of families across the country. Whether you’re covering rent, daycare, or groceries, this credit can make a real difference. By knowing the rules, filing accurately, and staying on top of your refund status, you’ll be better prepared to get the support you deserve—without the stress.

FAQs