How expanding the child tax credit could help families

Person demonstrating in favor of Child Tax Credit — Many low-income families are excluded from receiving a child tax credit, but a proposed national bipartisan deal could change that.

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How expanding the child tax credit could help families

Lawmakers in Washington and Springfield have proposed plans for expanding the child tax credit at the federal and state levels.

Many low-income families are excluded from receiving a child tax credit, but a proposed national bipartisan deal could change that.

Mariam Zuhaib/AP

By Lynnea Domienik

A bipartisan deal reached in the U.S. Senate could expand the child tax credit for lower income families, many of whom do not currently earn enough to qualify. Lawmakers are trying to pass the bill before the current filing deadline of Jan. 29, but it’s unclear if it can pass in the House. Additionally, there’s a bill in the Illinois House to create a permanent child tax credit.

Reset learns about the proposed expansions and how this could benefit lower income families in Illinois.

GUESTS: Deirdre Walsh, NPR Congressional correspondent

Audra Wilson, president and CEO, Shriver Center on Poverty Law

Mykela Collins, parent ambassador, Ada S. McKinley Community Services