If you have kids, there are two major tax benefits that can help reduce your bill: the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and the Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCC). While they sound similar, they work very differently—and both are set to change in 2026 unless Congress acts. 1. Child Tax Credit (CTC) – 2025 Rules The CTC helps families offset the cost of raising children. Who qualifies: Child must be under age 17 at the end of the tax year. Must be your dependent, related to you, and l