In the current presidential election cycle, the child tax credit has generated unprecedented conversation, as it is viewed by many from both major parties as a critical weapon in the fight against child poverty, aiding struggling families.

Just three years ago, child poverty saw a significant decline when the Biden Administration enhanced the child tax credit to include even the most impoverished families, but this change was temporary as Congress opted not to renew the expansion.

There is optimism for an enhancement of the tax credit, irrespective of the election outcome, yet disagreements persist concerning eligibility criteria.

Democrats advocate for an extensive expansion of social safety nets. Vice President Kamala Harris has prominently featured a substantial increase to the child tax credit in her campaign, suggesting direct monthly payments to parents—including those who do not work. Conversely, Republicans acknowledge the need for a tax credit uplift but raise concerns over the potential disincentives for parents not to pursue employment.

Despite the overall economic growth, child poverty remains pervasive in America. Young children under five are particularly vulnerable to poverty and housing instability, with over 17% of individuals under 18 living below the federal poverty threshold. Simultaneously, expenses related to raising children, including food, childcare, and housing, continue to rise.

“Expanding the child tax credit is the most effective way to reduce child poverty in the U.S.,” remarked Christy Gleason from Save the Children, a humanitarian organization dedicated to child welfare. “Families and voters are calling for it.”

Presently, the child tax credit allows families a deduction of $2,000 per child under 17 on their taxes. Families paying under $2,000 in taxes receive a reduced benefit, and those who are unemployed are excluded from all benefits.

Harris has made the expansion of this credit a focal point of her economic messaging, with her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, having experience in passing a similar state-level credit.

During his presidency, Donald Trump increased the child tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000. His campaign has not detailed specific proposals for the child tax credit but indicated a willingness to significantly boost it.

Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance from Ohio, suggested on CBS’ Face the Nation that the credit could rise to $5,000 to support parents wishing to remain home with their children. However, some Republicans remain cautious about extending benefits to non-working parents.

After defeating a child tax credit bill in August, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell expressed concerns that the proposal would amount to “cash welfare,” benefiting non-working families instead of rewarding those actively in the workforce.

This debate carries significant implications for parents unable to engage in employment due to disabilities or caregiving responsibilities for children or elderly family members, as many have been excluded from benefits due to low or absent income.

Kandice Beckford, 25, exemplifies the challenges faced by many. Once a medical assistant, she had to resign during her pregnancy, which caused complications preventing her from working.

Even when employed, Beckford experienced homelessness, often relying on the kindness of friends and family. After giving birth in April, she faced a lack of stable housing and sought assistance from social service agencies.

“I’m a godly woman, so I really tried to leave most of that in God’s hands,” Beckford reflected. “It was worrisome, but I tried not to let it overpower my life and my thinking.”

Her situation highlights the precarious financial circumstances that many families, especially single mothers, navigate while raising children without a steady income. If Beckford cannot return to the workforce this year, she will remain ineligible for any benefits.

The Harris campaign proposes making the child tax credit universally available, offering $6,000 for newborns and $3,600 for additional children, paid out monthly to alleviate the burden of waiting for tax returns. To fund this initiative, Harris plans to increase taxes on corporations and high-income earners, proposing to let certain tax credits from Trump’s administration lapse.

During his presidency, the child tax credit was increased to $2,000 with an elevated income threshold, allowing families making as much as $400,000 to benefit. However, this improved credit will expire at the close of next year unless future congressional action occurs.

Under President Biden, the credit was expanded to $3,000 per child in 2021, with $3,600 for younger kids—a change that halved child poverty rates based on certain measures before it expired.

In September, Beckford successfully gained entry into a women’s shelter in Maryland, where she received assistance from social services with essentials for her newborn, including a stroller and clothing.

When discussing her aspirations for her daughter Inari, Beckford expressed hopes for educational excellence, wanting Inari to surpass her own achievements. Beckford is thrilled to see her daughter hit various developmental milestones.

Her most heartfelt wish remains grounded yet seemingly unreachable:

“I want her to have a stable life,” Beckford stated.