Question

Calculate the amount of the child and dependent care credit allowed for 2017 in each of the following cases, assuming the taxpayers had no income other than the stated amounts

. a. William and Carla file a joint tax return. Carla earned $26,000 during the year, while William attended law school full-time for 10 months and earned no income. They paid $3,500 for the care of their 3-year-old child, Carl.
$_____________
b. Raymond and Michele file a joint tax return. Raymond earned $32,500 during the year, while Michele earned $8,000 for the year from a part-time job. They paid $7,000 for the care of their two children under age 13.
$_____________
c. Beth is a single taxpayer who has two dependent children under age 5. Beth earned $23,500 in wages during the year and paid $6,700 for the care of her children.
$_____________

Answer 1

a. $725

Math: William's deemed income is less than Carla's ($250 x 10 months = $2,500 versus $26,000). $2,500 (expense limitation) x 29% (amount for $26,000 AGI) = $725.

b. $1,320

Math: In determining the credit, the maximum amount of qualified expenses to which the applicable percentage is applied is $3,000 for one dependent and $6,000 for two or more dependents. $6,000 (qualified expense limitation) x 22% (amount for $40,500 AGI) = $1,320.

c. $1,800

Math: In determining the credit, the maximum amount of qualified expenses to which the applicable percentage is applied is $3,000 for one dependent and $6,000 for two or more dependents. $6,000 (qualified expense limitation) x 30% (amount for $23,500 AGI) = $1,800.

Note: Taxpayers are allowed a credit for expenses for the care of their children and certain other dependents. And this credit phases out for some.

Thanks