There was one tax year----only one--- 2021---for which you could file a tax return and receive the child tax credit even if you did not work. The tax laws changed after that, and for all years after that, the refundable child-related credits are based on having income from working.
If you file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 you still have time to receive a 2021 tax refund.
To file a return for a prior tax year
If you need to prepare a return for 2021, 2022, or 2023 you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign, and mail the return(s)
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/
You may also want to explore purchasing the software from various retailers such as Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, Walmart, Sam’s, etc.
Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.
https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/state-taxes/contact-state-department-rev...
When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s. Use a mailing service that will track it, such as certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.
Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses. Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.
2021
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf
Here is the IRS 2021 Form 1040
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040--2021.pdf
or if you want bigger type use 1040SR for Seniors,
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s--2021.pdf
And 2021 Instructions
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040gi--2021.pdf
2021 Tax and EIC Tables
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040tt--2021.pdf
Sch 1 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s1--2021.pdf
Sch 2 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s2--2021.pdf
Sch 3 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s3--2021.pdf
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
