On this page you will find the latest press releases and statements from the Office of Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.
Walz, Flanagan are traveling the state to encourage Minnesotans to file for the credit
2/8/2024 3:28:52 PM
[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that nearly 90,000 Minnesota children are benefitting from Minnesota’s new Child Tax Credit in just the first two weeks of tax filing season. To date, 89,000 children have qualified for the credit with families receiving an average credit of $1373, for a total of $116 million in tax credits. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan today visited sites in Alexandria and Duluth offering free tax preparation assistance to encourage Minnesotans to file for the new Child Tax Credit.
The tax credit of up to $1750 per child is estimated to cut child poverty by up to one third in Minnesota. Nearly 300,000 households including 513,000 children are estimated to qualify for the credit.
“Millions of dollars are going back into the pockets of families through our new child tax credit to help with grocery bills, child care, and life expenses,” said Governor Walz. “I’m excited to see the benefits middle class families are seeing from this legislation. By giving families with kids a boost, we’re helping families in the here and now and setting kids up for future success. This is an investment that will pay off for generations.”
“Two weeks into tax season, we’re seeing our Child Tax Credit have an outstanding impact on families across the state,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Whether it’s child care, a flat tire, or an emergency medical bill, we’re helping Minnesotans land on their feet when life happens. We will continue working with our community partners to spread the word and help eligible families claim the credit.”
Minnesotans can now claim the Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. Minnesotans must file a 2023 individual income tax return in order to claim the credit. Most taxpayers who are eligible to claim the new Child Tax Credit are also eligible for free tax preparation assistance. Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the Child Tax Credit webpage .
Over 170 sites offering free tax preparation assistance are now open to help those filing income tax and property tax refund returns. Sites are staffed by certified volunteers and offer in-person and virtual options with most being open through April 15. To recognize volunteers for their service to their communities, Governor Walz also proclaimed February as Volunteer Tax Preparer Appreciation Month.
About free tax preparation sites
Last year, the VITA and AARP TCE programs prepared almost 49,000 federal tax returns, more than 49,000 Minnesota income tax returns, and nearly 38,000 property tax refund returns for Minnesota taxpayers. All those returns provided over $96 million in federal, state income, and property tax refunds.
Free tax preparation criteria
Minnesotans can get help at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site if any of the following apply:
The AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation for all Minnesotans, particularly those age 50 or older. Unlike VITA sites, AARP Tax-Aide sites do not have income restrictions.
Minnesotans can search for a site on the department’s website using their search feature and interactive map. Visit the Department of Revenue website for a list of suggested items to bring to a tax preparation site, including a photo ID, W-2 information, banking information for direct deposit, and other applicable items.
Free electronic filing is also available for Minnesotans with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $79,000 or less. To see if you are eligible for free electronic filing, see the Electronic Filing Software for Individuals page on the department’s website.
