Child Tax Credit Calculator
The 2026 Child Tax Credit is $2,200 per qualifying child, up to $1,700 of it refundable. This calculator estimates your credit and how much of it you actually get.
How to use this calculator
- Enter qualifying children.
- Enter modified adjusted gross income.
- Enter filing status.
- Your results appear instantly below and update as you change the numbers.
How this calculator works
For 2026, the Child Tax Credit is $2,200 per qualifying child. The credit phases out by 5% of income above $200,000 (single) or $400,000 (married filing jointly). Up to $1,700 per child is refundable — meaning you receive it even if it exceeds your tax. The calculator applies the phase-out and reports the credit you can claim.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies as a qualifying child?
A child under 17 at the end of the year, related to you, living with you for more than half the year, and claimed on your return. The child must have a valid Social Security number.
What does refundable mean?
A nonrefundable credit can only reduce your tax to zero; a refundable credit pays you the difference. Up to $1,700 per child of the 2026 CTC is refundable through the earned income threshold.
How is this different from the old $2,000 credit?
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (2025) permanently increased the credit to $2,200 per child for 2026 and made it inflation-adjusted going forward, with the refundable portion set at $1,700 per child.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.