Breaking Down the New Family Tax Credits for 2026

Kiplinger’s recent article on new family tax credits proposed for 2026 is a must-read for any household looking to plan ahead. These potential credits aim to ease the financial strain of raising children, offering greater tax relief to parents—especially those with modest incomes.

At UNest, we believe in staying proactive about financial change. While Congress debates these proposed expansions, families don’t have to wait to start saving smarter.

Here’s what the new proposal includes and how UNest can help families maximize its benefits:

  1. Enhanced child tax credits
    The proposed policy would increase the annual child tax credit and make more of it refundable. That means more money back in your pocket—especially helpful when paired with a UNest account growing in the background.
  2. Credits tied to early childhood care
    Credits for childcare costs may expand, potentially offering greater support for working parents. These credits, combined with regular UNest contributions, form a strong foundation for your child's future.
  3. How UNest fits in
    UNest isn’t a tax credit—but it complements these changes perfectly. With a UNest account, families invest small amounts consistently and can use those funds for anything their child needs: school, a home, or starting a business.
  4. Flexibility beyond government guidelines
    Tax credits are helpful, but they depend on government timelines and income brackets. UNest puts power in your hands, letting you set your own savings path on your own schedule.

Whether or not the proposed credits are passed into law, families who prepare now will be better positioned when changes take effect.

With UNest, you can stretch every dollar and build toward a more secure financial future—credit or no credit. 📲 Start building today. Use UNest to supplement future tax benefits.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. You should consult your own financial, legal, and tax advisors before engaging in any transaction. Information, including hypothetical projections of finances, may not take into account taxes, commissions, or other factors which may significantly affect potential outcomes. This material should not be considered an offer or recommendation to buy or sell a security. While information and sources are believed to be accurate, UNest does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information or source provided herein and is under no obligation to update this information.

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Don't just take our word for it

Hear what trusted money experts say about why UTMA and UGMA accounts can be a smart way to invest for a child’s future.

There are some tax advantages to using UGMA and UTMA accounts… Since they’re in your child’s name, the accounts will be taxed according to their tax bracket… There are no contribution limits on UGMA and UTMA accounts.

Dave Ramsey

Personal Finance Expert

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Investing for your kid’s future

Dave Ramsey

Personal Finance Expert

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...you could consider opening an account where you can dive deeper with the kids by your side. The easiest way to do so is to open a custodial account, known as an UGMA ... or UTMA ... account.

Jill Schlesinger

Emmy winning Business Analyst

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Straightforward “starter” investing account for kids

JILL SCHLESINGER

Emmy winning Business Analyst

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You can give children money that can accumulate somewhat tax-free over time... I love them (UTMAs) because they were like, trusts that you didn't need lawyers to create.... I think it's one of the better tax breaks around though. I know hunting for tax breaks may not sound very exciting, but that's how you take care of your family.

Jim Cramer

CNBC Host

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Give children money that can accumulate over time

Jim Cramer

CNBC Host

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