United Way of Connecticut fights for Child Tax Credit

39 percent of Connecticut families are living paycheck to paycheck according to the United Way of Connecticut. Meanwhile the state is enjoying a healthy surplus and is touting the size of its rainy-day fund. As a result, United Way is continuing its efforts to spearhead the CT Child Tax Credit Coalition and direct those funds towards families.

According to the Coalition child tax credits have seen use in 16 other states, particularly others with high costs of living. It also notes that temporary credits launched during the Covid pandemic benefited 119,000 children in the state, effectively lifting them out of poverty.

“Despite legislators proposing four bills with 47 co-sponsors, due to the fiscal controls, the General Assembly did not adjust the underlying budget for 2025. As a result, they could not adjust any policies related to taxation or revenue, including establishing a state Child Tax Credit,” reads a statement from United Way.

A petition with over 500 signatures circulated by the coalition includes input from the public.

“It’s time to close this gap with a CT Child Tax Credit. Putting money back into families’ hands is a proven solution, giving parents the flexibility to buy what their children need most,” says Daniel Fitzmaurice, Director of Advocacy for United Way of Connecticut. “This spending also boosts our economy and state budget – it’s a win-win. I encourage everyone to sign the petition to tell your elected leaders that you support the CT Child Tax Credit.”