If I work for an after an elementary school program/ summer camp, do I qualify for the early childhood educator credit?

[kyndri-hopkins]

I work for the local school district in Colorado k-5 as an after school teacher and in the summer. Does this count as an early childhood educator or would I have to have my CDA current to qualify?

[DianeW777 · Accepted solution]

According to Colorado (CO)  the following credentials are required. Check to see if your credentials qualify.

In order to qualify for this credit, you must have:

• A federal adjusted gross income (AGI) less than or equal to $75,000 if filing a single return or less than equal to $150,000 if filing jointly
• Held an Early Childhood Professional Credential issued by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood for at least part of the income tax year, and
• Been either the licensee of an eligible program or employed by an eligible program for at least six months of the income tax year. "Eligible program" means either an early childhood education program as defined in section 26.5-2-202(3), C.R.S. or a licensed family child care home. "Family child care home" has the same meaning as set forth in section 26.5-5-303(7), C.R.S. An eligible program must have held at least a level one quality rating pursuant to the Colorado Shines Quality Rating and Improvement System (Coloradoshines.com/programs(opens in new window)) during the income tax year. 
  • Early Childhood Educator Income Tax Credit