President Biden unveiled his American Families Tax Plan on April 28, 2021. The tax plan is a $1.5 trillion, ten-year program to increase funding for federal government support in education, childcare, paid leave, nutrition, and families. Proposed tax increases would have a significant impact on the high-net-worth individuals and high-income earners. The child tax credit eligibility criteria are designed to ensure that families with children receive adequate financial support. By adjusting the income thresholds and expanding coverage, the plan aims to benefit a wider range of families across the nation. This initiative reflects a commitment to reducing child poverty and fostering economic stability for households.
While the details are still not available, here is a brief summary of the plan’s provisions:
- The top income tax rate for individuals would be increased to 39.6% from 37%.
- The capital gain tax rate would be increased to 39.6% for households making over $1 million.
- The “Step-up in basis” on transfers of assets from a decedent’s estate to its heirs would be eliminated for gains in excess of $1 million for a single filer. It is not clear how this threshold would operate.
- “Carried interests” would be taxed as ordinary income tax rates.
- Tax deferrals on “like-kind” exchanges of real property would be eliminated when gains are greater than $500,000.
- “Excess business losses” deduction limitations under Internal Revenue Code Section 461 would be made permanent.
- The 3.8% net investment income (Medicare) tax would be expanded.
- Funding to the IRS would be increased by $80 billion to improve compliance, information reporting, overhaul technological infrastructure, and regulate tax preparers.
- The increase in Child Tax Credit under the American Rescue Plan Act would be extended through 2025 and will be fully refundable. The temporary expansion of the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit would be made permanent.
- The expansion of Earned Income Tax Credit for childless workers would be made permanent.

