now mitchell irby and millions of parents are get something extra money from the government. the child tax credit is up from $2,000 to $3,600 for kids under 6, and $3,000 for older children. half the money will be paid out over six months. parents will have to claim the rest on their tax returns, and families have to make under a certain amount to qualify. for a married couple filing jointly, that's $150,000 or less. the irs will send out money based on last year's tax return. so people who started making more money this year and no longer qualify for the credit need to go to irs.gov and opt out. >> because if you get it and you don't qualify, you have to pay back that money to uncle sam next tax season. >> reporter: mitchell irby is now cancer free and working again, but the extra money is welcome after months of last -- of lost wages. >> everything has increased so at least putting a dent in bills will be great. >> reporter: a financial boost helping her move forward as she puts the past year behind her. elise preston, cbs news, new york. >>> check your cabinets. johnson &