Letter 6591 says you may qualify to receive the Child Tax Credit (CTC) for 2021, or to receive additional CTC, but you need to file a 2021 income tax return to claim it.
The 2021 rules were different. For that year only, you could receive the credit even if you had little or no income.
What to Do
Follow the If/Then chart on your letter. It walks you through the next steps based on your situation.
If You Got Monthly Advance Payments
If you received advance CTC payments in 2021, you have to reconcile (compare) the total you received with the amount you're eligible to claim. To do that:
- Get your advance payment total and number of qualifying children from your IRS online account.
- Enter that information on the 2021 Schedule 8812 (Form 1040), Credits for Qualifying Children and Other Dependents.
- File your 2021 Form 1040 with Schedule 8812 and any other supporting forms, schedules, and documents to receive the remaining credit.
Use the 2021 versions of the forms and instructions. Current-year forms won't work for a 2021 return.
Watch the Time Limit
Refund claims have deadlines. For most people, the standard three-year window to claim a 2021 refund closed in April 2025. If you never filed for 2021, get professional advice before you assume the credit can still be paid to you.
Getting Help With the Return
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic return preparation for certain people. Paid preparers, including certified public accountants, enrolled agents, and attorneys, can also help.
Keep the letter, your Schedule 8812, and your advance payment records with your 2021 tax records.
If you have unfiled returns or a Child Tax Credit dispute, call us at (813) 229-7100.