Child and Dependent Care Credit
Credit for expenses paid for the care of qualifying children or dependents so you can work or look for work.
Estimate Your Savings
This is a simplified estimate. Actual savings depend on your complete tax situation.
Eligibility
Parents paying for childcare to work or look for work
Requirements
- 1Must have earned income
- 2Care provider cannot be your spouse
- 3Child must be under 13 or disabled dependent
Required Tax Forms
Understanding the Child and Dependent Care Credit
Credit for expenses paid for the care of qualifying children or dependents so you can work or look for work.
Tax credits directly reduce the amount of tax you owe, making them more valuable than deductions which only reduce taxable income. The Child and Dependent Care Credit can reduce your tax liability by up to $6,000.
To claim this credit, you will need to file Form 2441 and Form 1040 with your annual tax return. Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements and keep documentation of qualifying expenses or activities.
Calculate Your Full Tax Picture
Use our free tax calculators to estimate your total tax liability and savings.
Browse Credits by Category
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Child and Dependent Care Credit?
Credit for expenses paid for the care of qualifying children or dependents so you can work or look for work.
How much is the Child and Dependent Care Credit worth?
The Child and Dependent Care Credit is worth up to $6,000 per year. The average taxpayer saves approximately $1,200.
Who is eligible for the Child and Dependent Care Credit?
Parents paying for childcare to work or look for work. Key requirements include: Must have earned income; Care provider cannot be your spouse; Child must be under 13 or disabled dependent.
What forms do I need to claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit?
You will need to file Form 2441, Form 1040 with your tax return to claim this credit.
Is the Child and Dependent Care Credit refundable?
Most business and energy tax credits are nonrefundable but can be carried forward to future tax years.
Can I claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit with other tax credits?
Yes, in most cases you can claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit along with other eligible tax credits. However, some credits have interactions that may reduce the benefit. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.