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Bringing home a newborn is one of life’s biggest joys. (Hello, tiny socks and baby coos.) But between feedings, sleepless nights, and figuring out a nap schedule that sort of works, taxes can easily feel like the last thing you want to tackle. And yet, taking a few simple steps could mean extra money in your pocket, either by increasing your refund or reducing what you owe.
That’s why we teamed up with the tax pros at H&R Block to create a straightforward checklist for new and expecting parents. Think of this as your tax roadmap, designed to guide you through filing (minus the stress and confusion). And you can choose to file directly with an H&R Block pro or opt for H&R Block DIY, which includes expert advice so you can feel more confident that you're not leaving money on the table.
1. Apply for Your Baby’s Social Security Number
Before you can claim your baby on your tax return, you’ll need to apply for their Social Security number. Most hospitals will help you apply at the same time you complete your baby’s birth certificate paperwork. It’s a simple step that unlocks valuable tax credits.
Pro tip: Don’t file until the baby’s SSN is ready. The IRS won’t process dependent-related credits without it.
2. Make Sure You Can Claim Your Newborn
To qualify as a dependent, your baby must meet certain IRS requirements related to relationship, residency, support and citizenship. This is especially important to check if you're not married or not filing jointly, since only one parent can claim the child.
If you're unsure who qualifies (or how "tiebreaker rules" work), a tax expert can walk you through it based on your specific situation.
3. Take Advantage of Major Tax Breaks
Now that baby’s here, your tax return could look very different (in a good way). Parents may qualify for a range of money-saving credits and deductions, including:
The Child Tax Credit (up to $2,200 per child)
The Child and Dependent Care Credit (for childcare costs)
Deductions for certain medical expenses related to pregnancy and birth (if you itemize)
4. Double-Check Your Tax Forms If Your Work Situation Changed
Life after baby can mean shifting your work schedule and your tax forms. Parental leave, job changes, freelancing or reduced hours can all affect which tax forms you should receive. Make sure you have filled out a W-4 to account for a new child, have every W-2 and/or 1099 you’re expecting and that the income listed matches your records. Missing or incorrect forms are a common cause of filing delays.
5. Avoid Common Filing Mistakes That Can Slow Things Down
New parents are often juggling a lot, and even small details (like entering your baby’s SSN correctly, choosing the right filing status, or including childcare provider information) can make a difference. Taking time to review everything carefully, or working with an expert, can help avoid delays and ensure you don’t miss out on credits you qualify for.
6. Start Your Baby’s Savings With a Trump Account
If your child is under 18 at the end of the calendar year, then they may be eligible for a new government-backed savings account—called a Trump Account. Babies born after January 1, 2025, may also qualify for a $1,000 government contribution through a pilot program. You can add up to $5,000 per year to your child’s account after July 4th, 2026. The accounts are tax-deferred so they can grow without being taxed until the time they are withdrawn. It’s a simple way to begin saving early for your child’s future.
Want to know more about Trump accounts? We’ve got you covered with this explainer.
7. Look Beyond Your Tax Return With Other Ways to Save Money
Tax credits are only part of the picture. Depending on your situation, you might also benefit from:
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to offset childcare or medical costs
529 education savings plans that grow tax-free
Gifts, like monetary baby shower contributions, which are often tax-free
These benefits can reduce your tax burden now or set your family up for long-term savings.
8. Consider Expert Help If Life Gets Complicated
If your year included a big change, like getting married, moving, starting a business or navigating shared custody, it might be time to call in a pro. H&R Block’s tax experts can help you understand how those changes affect your filing and make sure you're getting every credit and deduction you deserve.
Bonus: Get 20% Off DIY Online Tax Filing with H&R Block, Offer valid: 1/1/26 – 4/15/26
Disclaimer: Valid for H&R Block Online at hrblock.com for an original 2025 personal federal income tax return. Discount may not be combined with any other offer or promotion. Expires April 15, 2026. Void if transferred and where prohibited. Exclusions may apply. No cash value.: https://linkto.hrblock.com/c/65668/3439374/5683?prodsku=lob-gct_103_p11&blnorw=true
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