Credit for Child and Dependent Care Expenses

If you pay someone to care for your child (under the age of 13), your spouse, or another dependent who is not able to care for him or herself you may be eligible for a tax credit. The tax credit can lower the amount of income tax you owe and increase any refund you might receive. To qualify, you must pay the child or dependent care expenses so you can work or look for work. There are other requirements. Information is available in IRS Publication 503 or in the Form 1040 or 1040A Instructions. The tax credit application form and the IRS Publication are available at www.irs.gov or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 or 1-800-829-1040.