Child tax credit

[Ps1596]

I receive Social Security Survivor benefits and have taxes withheld because I filled out a  voluntary form from IRS. Can I still get a refund/child dependent credit?

[xmasbaby0]

No.   You are not eligible for the refundable child-related credits like earned income credit or the additional child tax credit if you do not have income from working.   You can get a refund of tax withheld from your SS, but you will not receive any additional refund based on having a dependent child unless you also have some income from working.

[Andrew_W]

The Child Tax Credit is generally eligible to be claimed by the parent or guardian of the child who provides more than 50% of their support (including living with them). Eligibility for the credit is not affected by receiving Social Security benefits. Assuming you are otherwise able to claim the child as a dependent, you will be able to claim the Child Tax Credit as well.

This article is a good resource for the Child Tax Credit requirements: 2023 and 2024 Child Tax Credit: Top 7 Requirements