Why wasnt my earned income added for my daughter. even though I only had $1, 000 worth of income last year shouldn't have gotten back more than $377

[redelvises]

I only had a little over $1, 000 income last year but I'm raising my fourteen-year-old daughter and I only receiving back $377 even though

[Vanessa]

In order to get the child tax credit you need to have at least $2,500 in earned income.  

[SweetieJean]

Did you file Single, or Head of Household?  Any other type of income?
You supported both of you on only $1000? We ask, because there may be another adult that can claim her and/or you.

[Hal_Al]

No. The money you hear about people getting for just filing a tax return claiming kids requires them to  have some earned income (wages or self employment). Without earned income, they are not eligible for the "refundable" Earned Income Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.  Both credits are calculated on the amount of earned income you have. No earned income means no "refund". A small amount of earned income means a small refund. $377 is about right for $1000. 

A child can be the “qualifying child” dependent of any close relative in the household. If you live with someone else, e.g. your parents, it may be better if they claim your child.