Starting June 2025, millions of families will begin receiving a $1,500 Child Stimulus Payment per qualifying child. This one-time federal relief aims to ease rising household costs for parents raising kids under 17. Whether you’re preparing your taxes, advising clients, or managing a household budget, this guide explains everything you need to know—from eligibility to claiming your payment and avoiding delays.
Overview
Here’s a quick look at the main details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $1,500 per qualifying child |
| Child Age Limit | Under 17 by December 31, 2024 |
| Income Thresholds | Single: $75K, Head of Household: $112.5K, Joint: $150K |
| Required Tax Forms | Form 1040 and Schedule 8812 |
| Payment Start Date | Expected in June 2025 |
| Delivery Methods | Direct deposit, check, or prepaid debit card |
| Official IRS Website | irs.gov |
What
The $1,500 Child Stimulus is a one-time federal payment to help families manage expenses like food, education, and childcare. It’s different from the monthly Child Tax Credit but uses a similar process and eligibility requirements.
This payment is based on your 2024 tax return. That means how and when you file makes all the difference in how fast you receive your money.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must meet these rules:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Have a valid Social Security number for yourself and each child.
- Your child must be under age 17 by December 31, 2024.
- File a 2024 federal tax return listing your children as dependents.
- Meet income limits:
- Single: up to $75,000
- Head of Household: up to $112,500
- Married Filing Jointly: up to $150,000
Families earning above these amounts will see smaller payments due to a phase-out process.
Claim
Getting your payment is easier than it sounds. No separate application is required. Just follow these four steps:
1. File Your 2024 Return
Use Form 1040 and list your dependents. Double-check that each child’s Social Security number is correct.
2. Include Schedule 8812
This form calculates your eligibility for child-related tax credits and is required for the $1,500 payment.
3. Check Direct Deposit Info
Make sure your bank account is up to date with the IRS. This is the fastest way to get your money.
4. File Early
The sooner you file in 2025, the earlier your payment can be processed. Filing by February or March could mean money in your hands by June.
When
Though exact dates aren’t set, the IRS expects to begin payments in June 2025. Here’s how they’ll send it:
- Direct Deposit: Fastest method. Be sure your info is current.
- Paper Check: Mailed to the address on your latest tax return.
- Prepaid Debit Card: Used in some cases for families without bank accounts.
Make sure all your contact and account info is updated when you file.
Example
Sarah, a single mom in Texas, has two kids aged 8 and 14. Her income is $65,000. She files her 2024 return in February and includes Schedule 8812. By June, she gets $3,000 in direct deposit. That helps her pay for groceries, summer care, and bills. It’s a major relief during a tight financial stretch.
Tips
Here’s how different groups can prepare:
- Parents: Keep Social Security cards, birth certificates, and tax info on hand.
- Tax Pros: Help clients prepare early and correctly file Schedule 8812.
- HR Teams: Share IRS resources during tax season.
- Nonprofits: Offer outreach and filing help to low-income families.
Planning ahead means fewer delays and more peace of mind when June rolls around.
FAQs
Who gets the $1,500 Child Stimulus?
Parents with kids under 17 who meet income and tax rules.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No application needed—just file your 2024 taxes correctly.
When do payments start?
The IRS expects to begin payments in June 2025.
Which tax form should I use?
Use Form 1040 and include Schedule 8812.
Can I get it by direct deposit?
Yes, if your banking info is on file with the IRS.
