Child Tax Credit 2025 Advance Payments: When Will They Start and How to Manage Them
Wondering when advance payments for the 2025 Child Tax Credit will begin — or how to update your info to make sure you actually receive them? You’re not alone.
While the updated 2025 Child Tax Credit has been signed into law through the One Big Beautiful Bill, many U.S. families — including those living abroad — are still waiting on the details about how and when the advance payments will roll out.
In this article, we’ll break down:
- Whether advance payments are coming back in 2025
- What we know (and don’t know) about the IRS timeline
- How advance payments work
- What steps to take now to prepare
- How expats can receive and manage their payments
Are Advance Child Tax Credit Payments Happening in 2025?
Not yet — but they’re expected.
The One Big Beautiful Bill restored and increased the Child Tax Credit, raising it to $2,200 per qualifying child for the 2025 tax year (filing in 2026). It also kept a refundable portion of up to $1,700, giving eligible families a chance to receive money back, even if they owe no federal income tax.
But as of July 2025, the IRS has not yet confirmed whether monthly advance payments will return like they did temporarily in 2021.
Congress gave the IRS the authority to issue advance payments again, but the actual rollout depends on IRS infrastructure, funding, and planning.
How Did Advance Payments Work in the Past?
In 2021, eligible families received half of their expected Child Tax Credit in monthly advance payments — usually $250 to $300 per child, depending on age. The rest was claimed when filing their tax return.
That system relied on an IRS portal where families could:
- Check eligibility
- Update bank info or mailing address
- Add new dependents
- Opt out of advance payments
If advance payments return in 2025, we expect a similar system to be revived, likely with improvements.
What Steps Can You Take Now?
Even though payments haven’t started, you can get ahead of the process:
1. Make sure your 2024 return is filed.
The IRS will use your most recent tax return to calculate eligibility and payment amounts. If you haven’t filed your 2024 return yet, now’s the time.
2. Ensure your child has a valid SSN.
To qualify for the Child Tax Credit, your child must have a Social Security Number issued before the filing deadline.
3. Keep your address and direct deposit info current.
If you move or change bank accounts, make sure your details are updated with the IRS, especially if you’re living abroad.
4. Watch for IRS announcements.
The IRS may launch a new online portal to manage payments. Bookmark the official IRS CTC page for updates.
5. Know how your child’s income affects your return.
If your child has foreign investment income — like interest, dividends, or capital gains — and you report it on your return using Form 8814, it could impact your tax liability or eligibility for certain credits. Make sure you understand how unearned income is handled when claiming the Child Tax Credit.
Can Expats Receive Advance Child Tax Credit Payments?
Yes — in most cases. As long as you meet the eligibility rules and have a U.S. bank account or a reliable foreign mailing address, the IRS can send advance payments to families living abroad. However, expats often face:
- Longer wait times for paper checks (if direct deposit isn’t set up)
- Address or SSN mismatches that delay payment
- Complexity around FEIE/FTC that affects whether the refundable portion applies
That’s why it’s so important to:
- Make sure your income isn’t fully excluded by FEIE if you want to qualify for refunds
- Confirm your child and at least one spouse (if filing jointly) have valid SSNs
- File early and keep documentation ready
Stay Ahead of IRS Changes — and Get Help Filing
The Child Tax Credit can deliver meaningful financial support — but only if you meet the eligibility criteria and stay up to date with IRS requirements.
Greenback’s expert advisors help expats around the world claim what they’re owed, avoid missed payments, and file correctly the first time.
Want help making sure you don’t miss out on the 2025 Child Tax Credit? If you’re ready to be matched with a Greenback accountant, click the get started button below. For general questions on expat taxes or working with Greenback, contact our Customer Champions.
Whether you’re years behind or just unsure about the thresholds, our team is ready to help.
The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. The IRS has not yet released specific procedures for 2025 child tax credit advance payments. We will update this guide when official details are published. Individual tax situations vary, and you should consult with a qualified tax professional about your specific circumstances.
