You may be able to claim the child and dependent care tax credit if you pay expenses for the care of your under-age-13 child or another qualifying person to enable you (and your spouse, if filing a joint return) to work or look for work.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
The tax credit is a percentage of the work-related expenses you paid during the year for the care of a qualifying person. Qualifying persons include dependent children under age 13. Physically or mentally incapable persons count as well. The cost of camps and before- and after-school programs qualifies for the credit if the camps are primarily for the protection and well-being of your child. On the other hand, the cost of overnight camps, summer schools, and tutoring programs does not qualify.
Although the credit is not large, it’s free money. You would, and likely did, spend this money without regard to the credit. This means you have likely done all you need to do to claim the credit when it comes time for us to prepare your tax return.
If you need help filing your tax returns to receive the optimal tax savings, contact us and let us help you.