New York families with children may soon see a significant financial boost as the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) advances in the state legislature. Both the New York State Assembly and Senate have included the full tax credit in their One House budget proposals, marking a crucial step toward quarterly payments that would provide direct relief to working families.
A New Era of Financial Support for Families
Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed increasing the Empire State Child Credit to up to $1,000 for children under four and $500 for those aged 4-16. While this expansion would provide much-needed assistance, advocates argue that it does not go far enough to combat child poverty. The Working Families Tax Credit aims to fill that gap by raising the maximum credit to $1,600 per child and guaranteeing a $100 minimum credit per child.
If enacted, families would receive payments on a quarterly basis, ensuring more consistent financial support. The proposal would also index the credit to inflation, eliminate restrictions that exclude some of the lowest-income families, and extend eligibility to 17-year-olds.
The Fight Against Child Poverty in New York
Supporters of the WFTC emphasize its potential to make a real difference for struggling families. “We are excited to see the Working Families Tax Credit included in both the Assembly and Senate One Houses. This is a huge step toward reducing New York’s child poverty rate, which remains among the highest in the nation,” said Ana María Archila and Jasmine Gripper, Co-Directors of the New York Working Families Party.
Advocates argue that by sending payments directly to families, the WFTC will help cover essential costs like groceries, childcare, and rent, ultimately lifting thousands of children out of poverty.
Legislators and Advocates Push for Action
State lawmakers are making a strong case for the credit’s inclusion in the final state budget.
“By including the Working Families Tax Credit in our budget proposals, we are sending a clear message: you shouldn’t have to be a millionaire to raise a family in New York,” said State Senator Andrew Gounardes. “This tax credit will provide up to $1,600 per child annually, paid out quarterly, and adjusted for inflation—exactly the kind of bold policy we need to make New York more affordable.”
Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi, Chair of the Committee on Children and Families, called the WFTC a historic opportunity to lift families out of poverty and provide lasting economic security.
Organizations such as the New York Immigration Coalition, United Neighborhood Houses, and The Children’s Agenda are also advocating for Governor Hochul’s full support. “While expanding the Empire State Child Tax Credit is a step in the right direction, it doesn’t go far enough,” said Tara Klein, Deputy Director of Policy & Advocacy at United Neighborhood Houses. “We need a tax credit that truly strengthens communities and helps struggling families.”
What’s Next?
With widespread legislative and public support, all eyes are now on Governor Hochul. Will she champion the WFTC and ensure that families begin receiving quarterly payments as early as next year?
As budget negotiations continue, the fight for the Working Families Tax Credit represents a turning point in New York’s approach to family economic security. If passed, the quarterly payments would provide direct and immediate relief to countless households, helping to create a more equitable and financially stable future for all New York families.
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