Credits we check · United States

Did you miss the Child and Dependent Care Credit?

RefundSift checks your United States tax situation for the Child and Dependent Care Credit. Here is what it is, in plain language, with links to the official IRS pages.

Who qualifies

• You paid for care of a qualifying person (for example a child under 13) so you, and your spouse if filing jointly, could work or look for work.
• Generally not available if you file married filing separately.

How much

A percentage (based on your AGI) of up to $3,000 of care expenses for one qualifying person or $6,000 for two or more. Claimed on Form 2441.

How far back you can claim

To claim a refund on Form 1040-X, the IRS says you generally must file within 3 years after the date you filed the original return, or 2 years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.

Official sources

• Topic 602, Child and Dependent Care Credit (IRS)
• About Form 2441 (IRS)
• File an amended return (IRS)

Not tax advice. This page is general information based on the official sources above, which can change. Rules and amounts depend on your full situation and the tax year. Check the official source or a qualified professional before you claim.