Can I claim the child care tax?

I completed a yoga teacher training program this summer. My children were in daycare while I completed the program.

I am now self-employed as a yoga teacher. 

Can I claim the child care tax credit for the children summer daycare costs? 

Answer :

As long as you paid someone to care for your child or dependent , you may be able to claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit on your federal income tax return. The allowable amount for this credit is limited to a maximum of $6K for more than one.Individuals who pay for day care expenses for their children may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to 35% percent of the cost of day care, depending on your AGI. To qualify for the child and dependent care credit, you must have a dependent child(ren) age 12 or younger,. If your child(ren)(are) is age 13 or older, the child(ren) must be physically or mentally unable to care for herself (thmselves)or himself.You calculate your tax credit on Form 2441.

Your daycare provider must meet certain qualifications, The payments for care cannot be paid to your spouse, to the parent of your qualifying person, to someone you can claim as your dependent on your return.ALSO, Your filing status must be single, married filing jointly, head of household or qualifying widow(er) with a dependent child.The qualifying persons, your children, must have lived with you for more than half of 2013. You cannot claim childcare or adult daycare expenses for someone who does not live with you.If you file your return as married filing separation, then you can’t claim child care & dependent care expenses on your return.

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