New York’s Empire State Child Tax Credit: $350 Million in Relief for Families, Know Payout Dates

New York State has launched a significant financial initiative to support low- and moderate-income families, particularly as they prepare for the upcoming school year. The state is distributing $350 million in Empire State Child Tax Credit checks, with eligible families receiving up to $330 per child.

These payments, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, are a part of the state’s effort to alleviate the cost of living pressures on working parents.

Key Highlights of the Empire State Child Tax Credit Distribution

• Total Amount: $350 million in supplemental payments.
• Eligible Recipients: Over one million families across New York State.
• Payment Per Child: Up to $330.
• Daily Check Distribution: More than 10,000 checks are being mailed daily.
• First Round of Checks: Began distribution last Monday, with many families expected to receive their checks as early as this week.

Purpose of the Child Tax Credit Checks

The Empire State Child Tax Credit is intended to provide timely financial support to families as they manage back-to-school expenses. The timing of these payments aligns with the start of the school year, a period that often brings significant costs for families.

Governor Hochul emphasized that these supplemental payments are part of her administration’s ongoing efforts to ease the financial burden on New York’s working parents.

Who is Eligible for the Child Tax Credit Check?

The supplemental payments are being automatically issued to families who qualified for the Empire State Child Tax Credit in 2023 and filed their taxes on time. This means that eligible families do not need to apply separately to receive these checks. Here’s a breakdown of the income criteria for eligibility:

• Married Couples: Must have an income of $110,000 or less.
• Single Parents: Must have an income of $75,000 or less.
• Married Couples Filing Separately: Must have an income of $55,000 or less.

These income thresholds are designed to target low- and moderate-income families, ensuring that those who need the support most receive it.

How Much Will Families Receive?

The amount each family receives will vary based on their 2023 Child Tax Credit. The supplemental payment will range from 25% to 100% of the Child Tax Credit amount from the previous year. This substantial boost can provide much-needed relief, helping families manage expenses like school supplies, clothing, and other essentials as the school year begins.

Timing of the Payments

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has outlined that the checks are being mailed out daily, with the distribution expected to continue for the next two weeks. By the end of the month, over one million families will have received their checks.

How to Prepare

If you are eligible for the Empire State Child Tax Credit, there’s no need to take any action other than keeping an eye on your mailbox. The checks are being mailed automatically based on your eligibility from the 2023 tax year. This initiative provides a straightforward way for families to receive the support they need without additional paperwork or applications.

The distribution of the Empire State Child Tax Credit checks is a significant step towards supporting New York’s families during a crucial time of the year. As the cost of living continues to rise, these supplemental payments offer a tangible way to reduce financial strain.

Whether you plan to use the funds for school-related expenses or other essentials, this initiative is a welcome relief for many households across the state.

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