$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Arizona Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Arizona
SSDI in Arizona - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Arizona - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Arizona as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Arizona?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. Arizona expanded Medicaid, so many people also qualify for AHCCCS coverage in the meantime.
How long does SSDI take in Arizona?
Arizona processes initial claims through its Disability Determination Services. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Arizona - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Arizona - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Arizona, getting SSI also opens the door to AHCCCS, the state's Medicaid program.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026. Arizona does not add a state supplement
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get AHCCCS with SSI in Arizona?
Yes. SSI approval automatically enrolls you in AHCCCS, Arizona Medicaid. No separate application needed.
Does Arizona add to my SSI payment?
No. Arizona is one of a handful of states that pays no state supplement, so recipients get only the federal amount. Your monthly payment is the federal benefit rate.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Arizona
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Arizona
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
ADDED BY THE PACT ACT
20+ conditions
New toxic-exposure conditions the VA now presumes are service connected
VA.gov
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Arizona offer any extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Starting with the 2026 tax year, veterans rated 100% service-connected disabled can get a full property-tax exemption on their primary home (income limits apply for 2026 and are removed starting 2027). A separate, smaller exemption reduces assessed value for veterans with lower ratings. The Arizona Department of Veterans' Services can help you file, and this is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Arizona
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Arizona
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Arizona?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and AHCCCS?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. AHCCCS is Arizona Medicaid, based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
What's the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is the federal program directly. Medicare Advantage bundles everything through a private insurer and often includes dental, vision, and extras. Turnout can help you compare the right option for your situation.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Arizona
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Arizona
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
AN IEP IS
Legally binding
The school must deliver every service written in the plan, by law
IDEA
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Arizona public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Arizona?
Arizona schools must complete the initial evaluation within 60 calendar days of getting your written consent, then hold the meeting to develop the IEP within 30 days of deciding the child is eligible.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
AHCCCS (Medicaid) in Arizona
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Arizona residents.
AHCCCS (Medicaid) in Arizona
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Arizona residents.
AHCCCS (the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, said like "access") is Arizona's Medicaid program. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Arizona expanded Medicaid, so adults under 65 can qualify based on income alone, up to about 138 percent of the federal poverty level.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
1.79M
Arizonans enrolled in AHCCCS as of April 2026 (approximate)
AHCCCS FY2026 Appropriation Status Report
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
AHCCCS, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults 19 to 64 can qualify on income alone because Arizona expanded Medicaid
AHCCCS Eligibility Requirements, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults 19 to 64 with income up to about 138% of the federal poverty level
- Children through KidsCare (CHIP) in households up to 225% FPL
- Pregnant women up to 156% FPL
- Parents and caretaker relatives up to 106% FPL
- SSI recipients, who are automatically enrolled
How to apply
Apply online at Health-e-Arizona Plus (healthearizonaplus.gov), or call 1-855-432-7587 (1-855-HEA-PLUS). Have proof of income, identity, and Arizona residency ready. The same application also screens you for Nutrition Assistance and Cash Assistance, so you only file once.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona Medicaid is called AHCCCS, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. It is the same federal program with a state name and the same core benefits.
What's the difference between AHCCCS and Medicare?
AHCCCS is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Do I have to work to keep AHCCCS?
Arizona is rolling out an 80-hours-a-month work or activity requirement for many expansion adults 19 to 64, with broad exemptions for pregnant people, caregivers of young children, medically frail people, and others. Check your notice or ask AHCCCS about your exemption status.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) in Arizona
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) in Arizona
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP, called Nutrition Assistance in Arizona, is a federal program that helps qualifying households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto an EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, Walmart, and many farmers markets. The program is run by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES).
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~452,000
Arizonans received Nutrition Assistance in May 2026 (approximate)
Arizona DES, 2026
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing up to 30 days
USDA / Arizona DES, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below the Arizona income limit (Arizona raises the gross limit above the federal 130% through categorical eligibility)
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Arizona
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through Health-e-Arizona Plus (healthearizonaplus.gov), or at a local DES Family Assistance office. An interview is required but can be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need. The same application also screens you for AHCCCS and Cash Assistance.
Frequently asked questions
Is SNAP called something different in Arizona?
Yes. Arizona calls the program Nutrition Assistance, but it is the same federal SNAP program, run by Arizona DES. Your benefits work the same way on an EBT card.
I work full-time. Can I still qualify in Arizona?
Yes. Many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, childcare, and earned income are applied. Income alone does not tell the full story.
How long does approval take in Arizona?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and limited resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can be done by phone.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Arizona
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Arizona
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on AHCCCS, Nutrition Assistance, or Cash Assistance usually qualifies you automatically.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
ON AHCCCS OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on AHCCCS, Nutrition Assistance, or Cash Assistance automatically meets WIC's income test
USDA / Arizona DHS
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving AHCCCS, Nutrition Assistance, or Cash Assistance are automatically income-eligible
- Arizona residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Apply online at myazwic.com, or call 1-800-252-5942 to find your local WIC clinic and schedule an appointment. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Arizona residency, and proof of income or of AHCCCS, Nutrition Assistance, or Cash Assistance enrollment. If approved, you receive your Arizona eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC in Arizona?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Arizona's WIC food list and load onto your eWIC card.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limits are higher than people expect, and being on AHCCCS or Nutrition Assistance usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Arizona
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Arizona
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Arizona's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households pay their heating and cooling bills, with payments made directly to the utility company. The program is federally funded and administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) through local community action agencies. Cooling assistance is critical in Arizona, where extreme summer heat makes air conditioning a matter of safety.
INCOME LIMIT
60% SMI
Households at or below 60% of the state median income can qualify for heating, cooling, and crisis help
LIHEAP Clearinghouse (Arizona), FY2026
CRISIS HELP
Up to $500
Maximum crisis benefit for households facing shutoff, on top of the standard benefit of up to $640 a year
LIHEAP Clearinghouse (Arizona), FY2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account, not paid to you as cash
Arizona DES
Who qualifies
- Arizona households with income at or below 60% of the state median income (150% FPL for very large households)
- Renters and homeowners paying energy bills, or paying energy costs included in rent
- Priority given to households with older adults, young children, people with disabilities, or high energy burden
- Households on Nutrition Assistance, Cash Assistance, or SSI may qualify more easily
How to apply
Apply through the DES A-to-Z Arizona portal at atozarizona.gov, or through your local community action agency; call the LIHEAP line at 1-866-494-1981 to find yours. Bring a current utility bill, photo ID for household members, proof of income, and any disconnection notice. One application also screens you for the companion Power AZ program. Funds are limited, so apply early, especially before summer.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for LIHEAP?
Arizona uses a 60 percent state median income limit for LIHEAP. If your income is a little higher, ask about the companion Power AZ program, which raises the ceiling to 100 percent of state median income to help with utility bills.
Can LIHEAP help with cooling, not just heating?
Yes. Arizona LIHEAP covers both heating and cooling, and cooling assistance is a major focus given the extreme summer heat. The benefit goes toward your electric bill during the cooling season.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. LIHEAP payments go directly to your utility company. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or preventing a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Arizona
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Arizonans.
ACA Subsidies in Arizona
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Arizonans.
ACA subsidies are federal tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace. Arizona uses the federal marketplace rather than running its own. Because Arizona expanded Medicaid, adults with the lowest incomes are usually steered to AHCCCS instead, while the marketplace covers those who earn a bit more.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
357K
Arizonans enrolled in an ACA marketplace plan for 2026 (approximate)
KFF via KJZZ, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES FOR SUBSIDIES
~8 in 10
Most Arizona marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
HealthInsurance.org, 2026
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for 2027 coverage. Special enrollment available year-round for qualifying life events
HealthCare.gov
Who qualifies
- Arizonans without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning at or above 100% of the federal poverty level
- Those not eligible for AHCCCS, KidsCare, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Arizona
How to apply
Apply online at HealthCare.gov. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment (Nov 1 to Jan 15) or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local enrollment help is available.
Frequently asked questions
Does Arizona run its own marketplace?
No. Arizona uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov rather than a state-run exchange. You apply and compare plans there.
What if my income is too low for ACA subsidies?
Apply anyway. HealthCare.gov screens for AHCCCS and KidsCare. Because Arizona expanded Medicaid, most adults with very low income qualify for AHCCCS instead of a marketplace plan.
How much can I save with subsidies?
It depends on your income, household size, and plan. Most Arizona enrollees receive subsidies, applied automatically when you enroll through HealthCare.gov.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Arizona (Cash Assistance)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Arizona (Cash Assistance)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
Cash Assistance is Arizona's version of TANF. It provides short-term cash to families with children who have very limited income. The cash is loaded onto an EBT card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, food, and transportation. The program is run by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) and comes with a work requirement through the Jobs Program and one of the shortest lifetime limits in the country.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$347
The maximum cash grant for a family of three with a shelter cost and no countable income, among the lowest in the country (this is the benefit paid, not the income limit)
Arizona DES Payment Standards (A1), 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
12 months
The shortest lifetime cap on cash assistance in the nation, with a possible hardship extension
Arizona DES, 2016
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
100% FPL
To qualify, a family must pass a needy-family income test at 100% of the federal poverty level plus the payment-standard test
Arizona DES Income Eligibility Guidelines, 2026
Who qualifies
- Arizona residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in school)
- Households with very low income that pass both the needy-family test and the payment-standard test
- Adults must participate in the Jobs Program unless deferred
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through Health-e-Arizona Plus (healthearizonaplus.gov), or in person at your local DES office. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying also screens you for Nutrition Assistance and AHCCCS at the same time. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I receive Cash Assistance in Arizona?
Arizona has a 12-month lifetime limit for adults, the shortest in the country, though a hardship extension of up to another 12 months may be available. Child-only cases, where the grant covers the children, are not subject to the adult limit in the same way.
What's the difference between Cash Assistance and TANF?
They are the same thing. Cash Assistance is simply Arizona's name for the federal TANF program, run by Arizona DES.
Can I receive Cash Assistance and Nutrition Assistance at the same time?
Yes. Cash Assistance recipients are generally categorically eligible for Nutrition Assistance and AHCCCS. Applying at Health-e-Arizona Plus screens you for all three at once.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Arizona (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Arizona (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. The amount depends on your income and family size, and you have to file a tax return to claim it. Arizona does not have its own state EITC, so the federal credit is what applies.
WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
The EITC is refundable, so you receive the full amount as a refund even if you owe nothing
IRS
COMMONLY MISSED
1 in 5 skip it
About 1 in 5 eligible workers don't claim the EITC, often just because they don't file a return
IRS
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- And more, including limits on investment income
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Claim it for the year you qualified, and you can still file for past years you missed. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers. Arizona does not add a state EITC, so there is nothing extra to file at the state level.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, and having children increases the amount.
Does Arizona have its own state EITC?
No. Arizona does not offer a state earned income tax credit. Only the federal EITC is available to Arizona workers.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like Nutrition Assistance or AHCCCS, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Arizona
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Arizona
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Arizona families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Arizona does not have a refundable state child tax credit, though it offers a small nonrefundable dependent tax credit.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does Arizona have a state Child Tax Credit?
Not a refundable one. Arizona offers a small nonrefundable dependent tax credit (about $125 per child under 17 for 2026) that lowers state tax owed, but it is separate from and much smaller than the federal Child Tax Credit.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Arizona
Subsidized child care for working Arizona families.
Child Care Assistance in Arizona
Subsidized child care for working Arizona families.
Arizona's Child Care Assistance program helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and run by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES). The program pays providers directly, with families paying a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size; lower-income families pay little to nothing
Arizona DES, 2026
INCOME LIMIT
165% FPL to enter
Families enter the program at or below 165% of the federal poverty level and can keep coverage until income reaches 85% of the state median
Arizona DES Child Care Assistance, 2026
WAITLIST ACTIVE
Since Aug 2024
New non-priority applications go on a wait list, filled lowest-income first; priority groups still enroll. Apply early
Arizona DES, 2026
Who qualifies
- Arizona residents with a child under 13, or under 19 with special needs
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households at or below the state income limit (enter at 165% of the federal poverty level; stay until 85% of state median income)
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply online through the A-to-Z Arizona portal at atozarizona.gov, or contact DES Child Care Assistance. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, immunization records, and documentation of your work or training schedule. A waitlist has been active since August 2024, filled lowest-income first, so apply as soon as you know you need care.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose from any provider registered with DES, including licensed centers, certified family child care homes, and certain relative providers.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale co-pay applies based on your income and family size, assessed per child. Lower-income families may pay little to nothing, while families near the income limit pay a larger share.
What happens if I'm on the waitlist?
Your application stays active and slots are filled lowest-income first, in poverty-level increments, as funding allows. Priority categories such as families referred by the Department of Child Safety and tribal referrals can still enroll directly.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
