Montessori preschool expenses are eligible for a credit in California, and the Internal Revenue Service has provisions for credits on your federal returns under the Child and Dependent Care Credit. Combined, these two credits may save you up to $12,000 in preschool related costs as well as before and after school care as well.
Federal Tax Credits
The IRS has a tax credit known as the Child and Dependent Care Credit which can be used to offset some of your Montessori preschool expenses. You may claim up to $3000 for a single dependent or up to $6000 for 2 or more dependents. This federal income tax credit may exceed your actual taxes paid under certain circumstances. This credit also applies to summer day camps without overnight residency. Here is Form 2441 to complete and print.Claiming the Credit in California
If you needed preschool care for your child in order to work or search for a job, your expenses may be a credit on your California return. The Child and Dependent Care Expenses Credit will allow up to $3000 for a single child’s expenses. Up to $6000 if you have 2 or more children preschool or daycare.- Qualifying is simple and includes:
- Child’s age and citizenship
- The child was your dependent for at least 6 months
- Child’s residence and school must be located in California
- Earned Income During 2019
The instructions for claiming the credit are easy to follow and give you line by line instructions for filling out Form 3506. Submit this form along with your taxes return, or have your tax representative file them for you. California FTB makes it even easier by providing an editable PDF form that you can fill out then print for your records.
