Child tax credit

[peigongwangtax]

Based on the Child Tax Credit Calculator result, I should get the full amount of $250 a month, but I only got $167 deposit on July 15. What is the possible reasons for this? Can I ask IRS about this for clarification? Thanks.

[Destiny_Y_JD]

There are a few reasons why this amount can be reduced. The most common one is your adjusted gross income. If you AGI exceeds the thresholds then your amount will be reduced. 

These advance payment amounts begin to be reduced if your modified AGI exceeds:

• $150,000 if married and filing a joint return or if filing as a qualifying widow or widower;
• $112,500 if filing as head of household; or
• $75,000 if you are a single filer or are married and filing a separate return.
  
  You can manage payments at https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021. The IRS could also help you understand why the payment is lower. 

[peigongwangtax]

Thanks for your response, but my AGI is much lower than 150K with only 83K. Any other possible reasons then? Thanks.

[Destiny_Y_JD]

Are you filing single, head of household or married filing jointly? 

[Destiny_Y_JD]

 The amount a family receives each month varies based on the number of children in the family, the ages of the kids and the amount of the family's adjusted gross income.  Families with higher incomes who qualify for the $2,000 credit get monthly payments of $167 per child for six months. (Yes, advance payments will go to all families who are eligible for the child tax credit, and not just to those who qualify for the $3,000 or $3,600 per-child higher credit).

The advanced payments are treated a bit differently than the regular child tax credit. 

If you were filing single (or married filing separate) at $85k AGI this would explain why you were receiving a reduced amount.