topic TurboTax help says I should be able to claim dependant care expenses but it wont let me! in Deductions & credits

TurboTax help says I should be able to claim dependant care expenses but it wont let me!

matt-ward — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:39:04 GMT

I am divorced. My son spent 50% of the year living with me. I earn more so according to TurboTax help I am the custodial parent. Per our divorce agreement, mum is claiming son as dependent. Again according to TurboTax help I should still be able to claim dependent care expenses, but it wont let me. TurboTax help says "Custodial Parent of Child - The custodial parent who doesn't claim a tax exemption for a child can claim the dependent care credit if that parent meets all the following conditions: 1. You are the custodial parent 2.The child was under the age of 13 3. The noncustodial parent is entitled to claim the child as a tax dependent".

Any help appreciated! Thanks!

Earnings have nothing to do with being a custodial parent...

Coleen3 — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:39:07 GMT

Earnings have nothing to do with being a custodial parent. A custodial parent is the one with whom the child lives. Qualifying child. To be your qualifying child, a child must live with you for more than half the year and meet other requirements.

Only the custodial parent may claim child care expenses, even if the non-custodial parent claims the dependency exemption.

Thanks Colleen but your answer is in direct contradiction...

matt-ward — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:39:08 GMT

Thanks Colleen but your answer is in direct contradiction to the Turbo Tax help feature which leaves me in a worse position than I was before I asked! I have attached a screen shot to my original question.