Claiming Dependent Care Expenses

[an1985]

Hi,

My child is living with her grandmother and going to daycare while my husband and I work. I had put 2500 in my DFSA at open enrollment period.  Can I still put a claim for this amount even though my daughter is in not in the country? 

[Carl]

I assume you are asking for your 2017 tax return? If asking for your 2018 return that question can't be answered definitely right now, as the IRS has not released all pubs needed, that reflect the changes to tax law.

First question to answer, since your child is living out of the country, is if she even qualifies as your dependent for tax purposes. Answer that question first by using the IRS tool at https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/whom-may-i-claim-as-a-dependent. For now, just to get an idea (that may be wrong for 2018) assume this is for your 2017 taxes.

[Stinkerbellkity]

In order to claim daycare, the purpose of the the child going to daycare has to be to allow you to work.  If the child does not even live with you, it seems difficult to understand how her attendance at a daycare is necessary in order too allow you to work.

[an1985]

I had to send her in order to work as I have a traveling job. But guess I need to wait for IRS definition to see if they accept this case

[an1985]

thank you for your reply. Yes this for 2018 tax return. I had allocated 2500 at time of open enrollment and they said i cant change the selection now. So I am trying to see what are my options to not loose that money