Child tax credit bill passes Georgia Legislature, goes to governor's desk

Scenes from the Georgia State Capitol on the 26th day of the legislative session on March 3, 2025. (Matthew Pearson/WABE)

A Georgia bill that would increase the amount of tax credit residents could receive for child and dependent care expenses passed the state legislature Friday.

If Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signs the bill into law, it would increase the current tax credit from a 30% to 50% match of the federal tax credit.

House Bill 136 would also establish a state tax credit of $250 for every child under age six, effective tax year 2026. If parents or guardians do not file taxes jointly, only one parent or guardian can claim the tax credit per child.