Governor Hochul announces expanded child tax credits for New York families

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul is reminding New Yorkers to take advantage of the State’s recently expanded child tax credit, also known as the Empire State Child Credit (ESCC), a refundable credit which can either help offset taxes or be paid out directly to taxpayers as cash back in the form of a refund.

To receive the credit, New Yorkers must file a New York State tax return this year.

“The Empire State Child Credit delivers a vital financial boost to New York families,” Governor Hochul said. “Now, after the largest expansion of the credit in New York history, more New Yorkers have access to the credit than ever, which will put money directly in families’ pockets and help make our state more affordable for millions of recipients.”

Filing season is now open.

These major reforms, according to the Governor’s office, will drive significant assistance to families with the youngest children and help families across the income spectrum, doubling the size of the average credit for families from $472 to $943.

You are eligible for the refundable Empire State Child Credit in 2026 if - you are a full-year New York State resident; have at least one qualifying child younger than 17 years old as of December 31 of 2025, and file a New York State income tax return and provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for you and for each child you claim.

You can receive the maximum value of the credit if your income is below $75,000 for single, head of household and $110,000 for married filing jointly.

For more details, check out the Governor’s website.

New York State Capitol image.