Young Child Tax Credit
by Franchise Tax Board
A refundable California credit for families with a qualifying child under 6 who generally also qualify for CalEITC.
Potential tax credit
Up to $1,189
Per year
What you can get
Up to $1,189 per eligible tax return for tax year 2025
Up to $1,189 in potential benefit
Published range: not stated to $1,189
For tax year 2025, FTB published a maximum Young Child Tax Credit of $1,189 per eligible return. You generally must qualify for CalEITC and have a child under 6. A zero-income exception exists. Claim it with FTB 3514.
Overview
A refundable California credit for families with a qualifying child under 6 who generally also qualify for CalEITC.
Who may qualify
- You must have a qualifying child under 6.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
How to apply
Use the official application or program page. Confirm current instructions with the administrator before you apply.
Preapproval not required
Important things to know
Effective dates: Jan 1, 2025 – Dec 31, 2025
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Related programs
May need to be used in sequence with
California Earned Income Tax CreditYoung Child Tax Credit generally requires CalEITC qualification, with a published zero-income exception.
Not sure what you qualify for?
Check your eligibility. We’ll compare your answers with published program rules.
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.