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Many Americans leave money on the table every year simply because they don’t know they’re eligible for refundable tax credits. In 2025, you could unlock up to $1,700 in tax refunds even if you didn’t earn enough to file taxes.
The IRS continues to alert low-income earners and individuals with dependents to check their eligibility—and file a return, even if not required.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about this potential refund and how to claim it.
What Are Refundable Tax Credits?
Refundable tax credits are a powerful tool in the IRS tax code. Unlike non-refundable credits, which can only reduce your tax bill to zero, refundable credits can provide you with a refund even if you owe nothing in federal taxes.
For example, a family with children or a low-income worker could get a check from the IRS just for meeting basic criteria.
Can You Get a Refund If You Don’t File Taxes?
Yes. Even if you’re not required to file taxes due to low income, you can still file voluntarily and claim credits you qualify for. The IRS allows you to claim a refund for up to 3 years after the original filing deadline.
That means in 2025, you can still file your 2022 tax return and claim any unclaimed refund if eligible.
Who Should Consider Filing in 2025 Even If Not Required?
You might need to file a return if any of these apply:
- Your income exceeds the IRS filing requirement
- You made over $400 from self-employment (side gig, freelance, etc.)
- You qualify for a refundable tax credit
Top Refundable Tax Credits in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of refundable tax credits that might lead you to a $1,700 refund or more:
| Credit Name | Maximum Refund Amount | Key Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Up to $7,430 | Low/moderate income, must have earned income and SSN. Income limits vary by household size. |
| Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) | Up to $1,700 per child | Child under 17, must have SSN, claimed as dependent, and meet income thresholds. |
| American Opportunity Credit (AOTC) | Up to $1,000 refundable | College students, at least half-time enrolled, under certain income limits. |
| Premium Tax Credit | Varies by health plan | Must purchase health insurance via the Marketplace. |
| Fuel Tax Credit | Varies | Available to farmers, off-highway business owners, and certain government entities. |
Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) – Up to $1,700
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) can be worth up to $2,000 per child, but not all of it is refundable. For 2024 tax returns filed in 2025, up to $1,700 of this credit is refundable under the Additional Child Tax Credit provision.
To qualify, your child must:
- Be under age 17 at the end of 2024
- Have a valid Social Security Number
- Be claimed as a dependent on your tax return
- Live with you for more than half the year
If your income is low and you didn’t owe taxes, the IRS could still send you a check of $1,700 per qualifying child.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – Up to $7,430
The EITC is one of the largest refundable credits and aims to help low-income workers.
You may qualify if:
- You’re single with no kids and earn less than $18,591
- You’re married filing jointly with 3+ kids, and earn under $66,819
- Your investment income is less than $11,600
- You meet age and residency requirements
The refund ranges based on number of children and income, making it one of the most underutilized credits in the U.S.
How to Claim Your Refundable Credit
To unlock your $1,700 refund:
- Check your income and family situation
- File your federal tax return, even if you don’t owe taxes
- Use free online tax filing tools or consult a professional
- Don’t wait too long—you only have 3 years to claim a missed refund
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not filing a return because you earned below the filing threshold
- Missing out on the Child Tax Credit due to not listing dependents correctly
- Overlooking education credits like the American Opportunity Credit
- Assuming you’re not eligible for EITC due to part-time or gig income
Every year, millions in IRS refunds go unclaimed—and you might be one of the eligible recipients without even knowing it. Thanks to credits like the Additional Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and more, you could unlock up to $1,700 or even more in real money from the IRS.
Even if you’re not required to file, it’s worth reviewing your financial situation to see if you’re missing out. File your tax return, claim what you deserve, and don’t leave your refund behind!
FAQs
Can I still get a refund if I don’t owe taxes?
Yes. If you qualify for refundable credits like the ACTC or EITC, you can receive a refund even with zero tax liability.
How long do I have to claim a refund from the IRS?
You have up to 3 years from the original due date of the return. For 2025, that means you can still claim a 2022 refund.
Do I need a tax professional to claim these credits?
Not necessarily. IRS Free File tools and reputable software can help. But if your situation is complex, a professional can help ensure you don’t miss any credits.