As the cost of childcare continues to rise, many states are offering their own state-level child tax credits in 2024 to help ease the financial burden on families.
These credits complement the federal child tax credit, providing additional support based on income, family size, and other factors. Below, we’ll explore the states offering these benefits and how they work.
States Offering Child Tax Credit in 2024
- California: Young Child Tax Credit
- Offers up to $1,117 per child under the age of six.
- To qualify, families must meet income requirements and be eligible for the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC).
- Designed for low-income families to help ease financial pressures.
- Colorado: Income-Based Credit
- Residents with incomes below $75,000 (or $85,000 for joint filers) are eligible.
- Families can receive between 10% and 60% of the federal child tax credit, with lower-income families receiving a higher percentage.
- Maine: Dependent Exception Tax Credit
- Provides up to $300 per child under 17.
- Fully refundable and indexed to inflation, so it adjusts with economic conditions.
- No minimum income requirement, making it widely accessible.
- Maryland
- Offers up to $500 per child under six years old, with additional benefits for children with disabilities.
- Massachusetts: Child and Family Tax Credit
- Provides up to $440 per child or dependent.
- No limit on the number of children that can be claimed.
- Minnesota
- One of the most generous, offering up to $1,750 per child with no cap on the number of children that can benefit.
- New Jersey
- Families with children under five years old can receive up to $1,000 per child, depending on income.
- New Mexico
- Offers a sliding scale credit ranging from $25 to $600 per child, based on family income.
How to Know if You Qualify
Each state has specific eligibility requirements for the child tax credit. These include factors like annual income, number of children, child age, and marital status. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine if you qualify:
- File a state tax return: Most states require you to file a state tax return to claim the credit.
- Automatic eligibility: Some states automatically apply the credit if you claim the federal child tax credit, while others may require additional paperwork.
- Income thresholds: Many credits are based on income limits, with lower-income families often receiving a larger benefit.
States with Higher Child Tax Credits
- Guam: Up to $1,437 per child.
- Virgin Islands: Up to $1,254.
- Alaska: Varies between $1,258 and $1,953 depending on family size.
In 2024, more states are offering child tax credits to provide financial relief to families, complementing the federal program.
By understanding the requirements in your state, you can ensure you receive the support you qualify for, helping to alleviate the financial strain of raising children.
Make sure to stay informed about your state’s tax calendar and submit the necessary forms to claim this valuable benefit.
FAQs
Which states offer a child tax credit in 2024?
Eleven states, including California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, and more.
How much is the California Young Child Tax Credit?
California offers up to $1,117 per child under six.
Is the child tax credit in Colorado refundable?
Yes, Colorado’s credit is refundable, providing between 10% and 60% of the federal credit based on income.
Can families in New Jersey claim a child tax credit?
Yes, families with children under five can receive up to $1,000 per child in New Jersey.
Do I need to file a state tax return to claim the child tax credit?
In most states, yes, a state tax return is required to claim the credit.