Press Release

Governor Pritzker Signs Budget Doubling Child Tax Credit in Illinois

06. 16. 2025

Statement from Lead Advocates for the Campaign, Economic Security Illinois

CHICAGO, IL – Economic Security Illinois (ESIL) applauds Governor Pritzker’s signing of the Illinois state budget, which includes a historic expansion of the state’s Child Tax Credit, a major victory for working families across the state. The finalized budget doubles the Child Tax Credit to up to $600 per child for eligible households with children under 12 in the coming fiscal year.

“In the face of rising costs, the Governor and General Assembly kept their promise to support Illinois families,” said Sarah Saheb, Director of Economic Security Illinois. “Doubling the Child Tax Credit puts money directly into the hands of parents who need it most and helps cover essentials like groceries, rent, and childcare. This is a tangible, direct investment in working families that will make a real difference in their daily lives.”

The expansion follows a successful, multi-year campaign led by Economic Security Illinois and partner organizations in the Illinois Cost-of-Living Refund Coalition. Established in 2023, the Illinois Child Tax Credit was the first of its kind in the state. This year’s expansion increases the credit to 40% of the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), providing $600 per child for eligible working families at or below the state median income with at least one child under the age of 12.