Minnesota state leaders are encouraging families to file their taxes this year to potentially claim a new child tax credit worth up to $1,750 per child.
The tax credit was approved by state lawmakers last year as part of a $900 million program aimed at reducing child poverty. According to state officials, about 300,000 Minnesota families are expected to be eligible for the new credit.
At a press conference on Monday, Governor Tim Walz, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart urged families to explore their eligibility. They say the credit could cut Minnesota’s child poverty rate by a third, but only if all eligible families file and claim it.
“This goal might sound ambitious but I believe that we can spread the word and get it done,” said Lt. Governor Flanagan. “I told the governor that I would be willing to wear a sandwich board all across the state if that’s what it would take.”
The tax credit amounts vary based on household income level, with a maximum of $1,750 per child for lower income families. Families can receive the credit even if they don’t owe any state income taxes. According to state officials, about 10% of eligible families have never filed taxes before, which is a key demographic they want to reach.