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Letter 6417: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS Letter 6417? Here is what it means, your deadline, what to check before you answer, and how to reply. Check your own letter free: it stays on your phone.
Check my Letter 6417 freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
Letter 6417 highlights key changes to the 2021 Child Tax Credit that affect families with dependents under the age of 18. This letter is on White House letterhead and is signed by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
The American Rescue Plan Act expanded the Child Tax Credit to provide needed tax relief to almost all working families with children. The act authorized the IRS to pay half of your expected Child Tax Credit in advance, so you can receive it this year. You will claim the other half when you file your 2021 income tax return.
If you received this letter, you should start receiving advance Child Tax Credit payments (also called child tax relief payment) automatically as early as July 15, 2021.
How to learn more
For more information see Advance Child Tax Credit payments in 2021 .
Your deadline
Answer by the date printed on your notice. If there is no date, answer as soon as you can, and call the number on the notice if you need more time.
What to check before you answer
Is this letter really from the IRS?
The IRS writes first by mail. A real letter shows a notice or letter number, your name and part of your tax ID number. The IRS does not ask for payment by gift card, crypto or wire transfer. If in doubt, sign in to your IRS online account, where many notices are listed.
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