Niagara County DSS Reminds Families to File for Empire State Child Credit

The Niagara County Department of Social Services (DSS) is reminding families, even those without earned income, to file a New York State income tax return so they can take full advantage of the Empire State Child Credit.  New this year (for Tax Year 2025), households with the lowest income, or even no income, can receive the maximum for this credit.

Families can receive up to $1,000 per child under age 4 and up to $330 per child ages 4 to 16 through the credit.  These funds can be used to pay taxes owed, if any, and provide additional cash back to families.

“New York State wants to be sure that families are taking advantage of the Empire State Child Credit and can receive cash back even if they don’t normally have to file a tax return,” said Niagara County DSS Commissioner Meghan Lutz.  “All families, regardless of income, can benefit from the credit but you must file a return to do so.”

New York State Office of Temporary and Disability assistance has stated that Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), cash assistance or housing assistance will not be impacted if you receive the credit.  For more information on the program, including how to get assistance in preparing a tax return, visit www.otda.ny.gov/childcredit.