The IRS Non-filer Sign-up Tool is a way for people who don't normally file taxes, including those who receive little or no income or are experiencing homelessness, to give the IRS information (name, address, and Social Security numbers) needed to calculate and issue advance child tax credit payments to them.
Who Should Use the Non-Filer Sign-Up Tool
People who didn't file a tax return for 2019 or 2020 and didn't use the IRS Non-filer tool to register for Economic Impact Payments last year should use the tool to provide the IRS with information about themselves, their qualifying children age 17 and under, and their other dependents, as well as their bank account information so the IRS can deposit the payments directly into their checking or savings account.
Who Should Not Use the Non-Filer Sign-Up Tool
Families who already filed or plan to file 2019 or 2020 income tax returns should not use the tool. Once the IRS processes their 2019 or 2020 tax return, that information will be used to determine eligibility and issue advance payments.
People who want to claim other tax benefits, such as the earned income tax credit, should not use this tool; they should file a regular tax return, and can use the Free File system on the IRS website for a fast, easy way to do so.
About the Advance Child Tax Credit
The expanded and newly-advanceable child tax credit was authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will calculate the payment based on a person's 2020 tax return, including those who use the Non-filer Sign-up tool. If that return has not yet been filed or is still being processed, the IRS will determine the initial payment amounts using the 2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filer tool that was available in 2020.
The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.
The IRS will issue these payments by direct deposit if correct banking information has been provided to them. Otherwise, people should check their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The dates for the advance child tax credit payments are July 15, Aug. 13, Sept. 15, Oct. 15, Nov. 15 and Dec. 15.
Refer to Advance Child Tax Credit Payments in 2021 on the IRS website for details on eligibility and additional resources.
The IRS is asking community groups, non-profits, associations, education organizations and anyone with connections to people with children to share this information about the advance child tax credit as well as other important benefits.
Resources:
FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments.