Advocates with United Way Connecticut say there are around 300,000 families eligible for the child tax rebate, and so far less than half of them have applied for it, with the deadline looming July 3.

State lawmakers passed the Connecticut Child Tax Rebate as the COVID-era federal tax credit was set to expire - to help offset the financial pressures of a pandemic and rising inflation.

"Costs are so high, it's hard to make ends meet, and it's just a little extra push especially at the beginning of the school year for families with children,” said Carin Buckman, director of communications at United Way Connecticut.

Buckman says United Way lobbied for the rebate in Hartford, and now they're encouraging residents to take advantage, with PSAs featuring real Connecticut parents.

Eligible families can get up to $250 cash from the state, per child in their home - up to three children. That’s up to $750 for three children.

Connecticut residents do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply, although you do need a 2021 tax return, which you can still do now.

While the rebate is meant to help working families living paycheck to paycheck, the income limits are generously middle class.

You can submit your application for the Child Tax Rebate online with the state Department of Revenue Services. United Way Connecticut has a list of frequently asked questions at their website.