Raising a kid in 2025 isn’t just a full-time job — it’s a financial rollercoaster with no brakes. Diapers, daycare, doctor visits — the bills seem to multiply faster than your toddler can dump a box of cereal on the floor.
But thanks to HB 136, Georgia families just got a little breathing room.
This new law offers a $250 state child tax credit for every child under 6 — and it’s on top of an expanded child and dependent care credit. Think of it as a small but mighty parachute slowing the freefall of child-rearing costs.
As attorney Jonathan Perazzo puts it:
“Raising kids is expensive, and Georgia just gave families a little help. This might not change everything — but for many families, it’s enough to pay for diapers, medicine, or school supplies.”
HB 136 in Plain English
In a time when everyday costs feel like they’re climbing a never-ending staircase, House Bill 136 arrives as a much-needed financial lifeline for families across Georgia. While it won’t wipe out the high cost of childcare or put an end to grocery store sticker shock, it’s a meaningful step toward easing the financial weight parents carry.
So, what exactly does HB 136 do?
First, it offers a $250 annual tax credit for every child under the age of 6. That means if you’re a parent of one young child, you could see $250 back at tax time — two young kids? That’s $500. This credit is available every year and is applied per child, giving parents an extra layer of support during those early, expensive years of development.
Even better? This credit isn’t a standalone benefit. It’s designed to stack with other state and federal tax credits, like the Child Tax Credit or Dependent Care Credit, which means families could qualify for multiple forms of relief at once.
But beyond the numbers, the true value of HB 136 lies in its purpose: to lighten the load on working families. It’s a recognition that raising a child isn’t just an emotional journey — it’s a financial one. And while this bill won’t magically solve the problem, it does acknowledge it.
Why It Matters
Let’s face it: $250 won’t move mountains, but it might buy you a few nights of sleep (or at least a box of baby wipes and a little peace of mind).
In the hands of a stretched-thin parent, $250 might cover:
- A week of daycare
- A month’s worth of formula
- That unexpected pediatric visit
- Or a much-needed mental health day (yes, even parents need those)
When you’re counting every penny, even small wins feel like jackpots.
Who Gets It?
The credit is aimed at Georgia residents who:
- File a state income tax return
- Claim a child under 6 as a dependent
- Fall within eligible income limits
In other words: if you’re raising tiny humans, this one’s for you.
And it doesn’t replace existing help — it adds to it, like a bonus layer on your financial safety net.
What is the Average Cost of Raising a Child in Georgia?
f you’ve ever felt like your wallet is shrinking faster than your toddler’s onesies, you’re not alone. A 2025 study by LendingTree puts the average annual cost of raising a young child in Georgia at $19,162 — and over 18 years, that adds up to a whopping $201,058.
Despite these numbers, Georgia still ranks among the most affordable states to raise a child, thanks to relatively lower housing and healthcare costs. But affordability doesn’t mean cheap — especially when childcare alone eats up more than half of that yearly budget.
Let’s break down where the money goes — and how new laws like HB 136 are offering a little relief for Georgia families.
Annual Cost
- A 2025 LendingTree study estimates that, for a young child, the average annual expense in Georgia is approximately $19,162
Total Cost Over 18 Years
- Over the span from infancy to age 18, that cumulative figure amounts to about $201,058 .
- This aligns with broader state-level reporting noting Georgia among the most affordable states for raising children.
Major Breakdown of Annual Expenses
Under this cost structure, typical yearly spending includes:
- Daycare/Childcare: Roughly $11,066 per year.
- Food: About $1,921 annually .
- Health Insurance Premiums: Approximately $2,373 each year .
- Other costs—like rent, apparel, and transportation—also contribute to the total but are not broken out as individually .
Quick Summary Table
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Cost | $19,162 |
| Total Cost for 0–18 Years | $201,058 |
| Largest Single Expense | Childcare ~$11,066 |
Georgia remains relatively cost-effective compared to many states, both on an annual basis and over the full childhood span . However, even in Georgia, raising a child still represents a significant long-term financial commitment—especially when factoring in childcare, healthcare, and the steady rise in related expenses.
Final Word from Jonathan Perazzo
“Georgia families needed a win, and this is a step in the right direction. As a father and a lawyer, I see firsthand how financial stress can feel like carrying a boulder uphill. HB 136 won’t carry the whole load, but it takes some weight off your back — and that matters.”
Call 888-PERAZZO for help understanding how new Georgia laws affect your family.
The Perazzo Law Firm proudly serves Georgia residents with free consultations and zero out-of-pocket fees.
Because when it comes to protecting your family, every dollar — and every law — counts.
