Wednesday's child tax credit payments could be the last

Dec 15, 2021
The expansion of the child tax credit was temporary and will expire at the end of the year unless Congress votes to extend it.
Children draw on a canceled check prop during a rally in Washington urging extension of the expanded child tax credit.
Alex Wong via Getty Images

Were tribal government COVID relief funds fairly distributed?

Oct 21, 2021
The American Rescue Plan earmarked $20 billion for tribal governments. But the allocation formula favored a handful of tribes.
Though the American Rescue Plan set aside more than $20 billion for tribal governments, more than half of the money was given to 30 tribal entities. Above, the bill enrollment for the American Rescue Plan before its signing ceremony in March.
Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images

Confused by IRS letters saying you made a mistake? You're not alone.

Oct 12, 2021
Some people think followup letters informing them of their right to appeal are a scam. They aren't.
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Feds flex the power of the purse to get states in line with COVID-19 restrictions

Aug 23, 2021
The Biden administration has said it would use the power of the purse to try to compel governors who won't champion mask or vaccine mandates to change course.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

For anyone who was on unemployment, Obamacare could be free the rest of 2021

Jun 30, 2021
Free premiums and very low co-pays will kick in for people who received at least a week of benefits, regardless of income.
The Biden administration is offering free coverage until New Year's to people who have received jobless benefits in 2021.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

The expanded child tax credit could "cut poverty in half"

Jun 28, 2021
Starting July 15, most parents will get monthly payments for half of the tax credit instead of a lump sum at tax time.
More parents will be eligible for the child tax credit this year. Above, a mother and daughter stand outside of a community food pantry in New York.
Spencer Platt via Getty

How far will the $28.6 billion relief fund for restaurants go?

Mar 12, 2021
To help restaurants clear debt and start over, "this is really what they need," an industry representative said.
In its first phase, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will prioritize disadvantaged businesses and those owned by women and veterans.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

What might consumers do with both a tax refund and pandemic relief money?

Mar 9, 2021
Those who have already paid off debt and built up their savings may be ready to spend tax refund money.
NoDerog via Getty Images

Will the next round of relief checks be based on 2020 income?

Feb 8, 2021
That may depend on how early you file your taxes.
Filing your taxes electronically and early could raise the odds of getting a relief check based on your 2020 income, according to Janet Holtzblatt of the Tax Policy Center.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

What is budget reconciliation, and how might Democrats use it to pass COVID relief?

Feb 3, 2021
The process allows senators to avert a filibuster and bring a bill to a vote with a regular majority, but only in specific cases.
Democratic senators might use the reconciliation process to stop a potential Republican filibuster on President Biden's relief bill.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images