County urges families to file state tax return for Empire State Child Credit

Press Release, Orleans County government

ALBION – The Orleans County Department of Social Services (DSS) is reminding families, even those without earned income, to file a New York State income tax return so they can take full advantage of the Empire State Child Credit.

New this year (for Tax Year 2025), households with the lowest income, or even no income, can receive the maximum for this credit.

Families can receive up to $1,000 per child under age 4 and up to $330 per child ages 4 to 16. They may also be eligible for other federal and state tax credits. These funds can be used to pay taxes owed, if any, and provide additional cash back to families.

“This program is specifically targeted to families with children, regardless of income, but in order to receive the benefit, you have to file a tax return,” said Orleans County DSS Commissioner Holli Nenni. “It is important that families understand they can receive this cash back even if they don’t normally file taxes or haven’t filed taxes in a while.”

Nenni stressed that filing a tax return for the Empire State Child Credit and receiving cash back will not impact Medicaid, SNAP, Cash Assistance, SSI, or Housing Assistance benefits.

For more information on the program, including how to get assistance in preparing a tax return, visit www.otda.ny.gov/childcredit.