Higgins announces updates to IRS Child Tax Credit Portal

Enhancements said to make it easier for families to edit information to improve delivery

Congressman Brian Higgins announced improvements to the Child Tax Credit update portal to make it easier for families to update information important to delivering the monthly payments.

Through the American Rescue Plan, Congress increased the Child Tax Credit and allowed families to receive a portion of the credit early, through monthly payments distributed July through December of 2021.

The Internal Revenue Service created an online portal that provides the opportunity to update personal information. Currently, families can use the portal to view enrollment status, to opt-out of the advance payments, to update or provide bank account information for direct deposit, or to view the status of their payments.

Updates to the portal implemented this week allow for families to change their mailing address. This is especially important for families receiving payments in the form of a paper check, but will also be helpful for families choosing direct deposit to ensure an accurate address is on file for statements and other critical information. Changes entered into the portal by Aug. 30 will be implemented in the distribution of the next payment on Sept. 15. Families can access the portal at https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portalt.

Higgins, who has been a proponent of making the CTC expansion permanent, said “Distribution of the Child Tax Credit monthly can help families better plan and prepare for their financial future. It goes far beyond just paying bills; it is a game-changing opportunity for families to get ahead.”

A press release stated, “Data recently released by the Census Bureau shows the expanded Child Tax Credit is working. Families are putting their tax credit to work to pay off debt, and afford food, clothing, child care, school supplies, transportation and rent or mortgage bills. With just two payments distributed, progress is already being made to reduce food insecurity and financial hardships for American families.”

Answers to frequently asked questions about the expanded Child Tax Credit is available on the IRS website at: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions.