PR-2022-01, March 23, 2022 WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service reminded U.S. Territory residents today that the Child Tax Credit amount increased for 2021. Eligible taxpayers in Puerto Rico can claim the credit by filing a tax return even if they don't have a filing requirement and have little or no income from a job, business or other source. Claiming these benefits could result in tax refunds for many people, therefore individuals should file an electronic return and choose direct deposit to avoid processing delays and speed delivery of their refund. Get free tax help from volunteers Free help preparing tax returns is available at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Center (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) site. The income limit for VITA assistance is $58,000. To find the closest free tax return preparation help, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887. To find a TCE AARP Tax-Aide site, use the AARP Site Locator Tool or call 888-227-7669. The locator tool can also help residents of Puerto Rico find the closest Facilitated Self-Assistance site that allows them to file on their own, with phone or email support from trained volunteers as needed. Payment options Taxpayers who owe taxes can pay online, by phone or with a mobile device and the IRS2Go app. When filing electronically they can pay with electronic funds withdrawal for free. Another option is to pay with their bank account using Direct Pay. All payment options are available on Pay Online. Filing electronically and using direct deposit is the fastest and most accurate way to file. Most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, however, some may take longer. The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return. Taxpayers filing paper returns can choose direct deposit, but paper returns take longer to process. Get more help Taxpayers can use the Interactive Tax Assistant to determine if they can claim the Child Tax Credit. They can also find answers to questions, forms and instructions and easy-to-use tools online at IRS.gov. No appointment is required and there is no waiting on hold. Additional help is available in Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals). Additional resources FAQs regarding the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments — Topic I: U.S. Territory Residents and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments
