Get the credit
A tax credit designed to actually reach the families who need it.
No asset tests. No complex paperwork. No cliffs. The FATC is fully refundable, broadly accessible, and automatically calculated when you file.
Tax season is open now
File by April 15 to receive your credit.
The credit is calculated automatically when you file your Colorado state return.
Credit amounts
Real money for real needs.
The credit varies by age because the costs of raising children do too. Younger children require more intensive care, so the credit is higher during those years.
Up to
$3,200per child under 6
Maximum for families with AGI under $15,000 — phases down gradually
Up to
$2,400per child ages 6–16
Continued support through school years and beyond
Average family credit
$2,862Phases out above $85K (single) / $95K (joint) — gradual, not a cliff
How it scales
The credit phases down gradually — not a cliff.
Families earning less receive more. As income rises, the credit steps down smoothly so no one loses support overnight.
Credit per child under 6 (joint filers)
Approximate values for illustration. Actual credit calculated by Colorado Department of Revenue.
How to claim it
Three steps. That’s it.
File your Colorado taxes
Use TurboTax, H&R Block, a VITA free tax site, Cash App, or file independently. Any method works. Have at least one child under 17.
The credit is calculated automatically
No extra forms. No separate application. The credit appears on your return as part of the standard filing process.
Receive your refund
The FATC is fully refundable — you receive the full amount even if you owe zero taxes. Most families receive it as a lump sum at tax time.
Why it works
Four features that make it the most effective state child tax credit in the country.
Broad Age Eligibility
Covers all children from birth through age 16, supporting families at every stage of childhood.
Fully Refundable
Families receive the full credit even if they owe zero state income tax — reaching those who need it most.
Wide Income Coverage
Gradual 3.87% phase-out means middle-income families benefit too — no sudden cliff.
Meaningful Amounts
Up to $3,200 per child under 6 and up to $2,400 per child ages 6-16. Average family receives $2,862.
Where it goes
Families spend it on what matters.
Common questions.
Who is eligible for the FATC?+
Any Colorado resident with at least one child under age 17 who files a Colorado state income tax return. There are no asset limits or complex requirements.
How much is the credit worth?+
The maximum credit is $3,200 per child under 6 and $2,400 per child ages 6-16. The amount phases down as income rises — single filers above $85,000 AGI and joint filers above $95,000 AGI are not eligible. The average Colorado family receives $2,862.
How do I claim the credit?+
Simply file your Colorado state income tax return. The credit is calculated automatically whether you use TurboTax, H&R Block, a VITA free tax preparation site, or file independently.
When is the deadline to file?+
Tax filing is open now and the deadline is April 15. File your Colorado state return to automatically receive the credit.
Can I receive the FATC even if I owe no taxes?+
Yes. The FATC is fully refundable, meaning you receive the full credit amount regardless of your tax liability.
Is the FATC sustainable?+
Yes. The credit is funded only when state revenue growth exceeds certain thresholds, ensuring it doesn't create budget shortfalls. It's also indexed to inflation.
How does the FATC work with other credits?+
The FATC works alongside the Colorado Child Tax Credit and the Colorado EITC. Together, these three credits reduce child poverty by 37%, making Colorado the state with the lowest child poverty rate in the nation.