Child and Dependent Care Credit

[user17696301851]

I've confirmed on the IRS website that I meet the criteria to get this deduction, but TurboTax says I don't. From the IRS questionnaire, I think I've narrowed it down to the question below as the issue, so I've gone through a the software a few times and just can't find where this question is asked. 

Were at least some of the expenses paid in 2025 or prepaid in a prior year?

- If I answer Yes, I'm eligible

- If I answer No, I'm ineligible

It seems like I've answered no in the software somewhere and just can't figure out where to find it!

[DianeW777]

If you would like to send us a “diagnostic” file that has your “numbers” but not your personal information it would help.  If you would like to do this, here are the instructions:  (Don't forget to give us the state)

TurboTax Online:

Open your return -Go to the menu panel on the left side of your return and select Tax Tools. 

1. Then select Tools below Tax Tools.
2. A window will pop up which says Tools Center.  
3. On this screen, select Share my file with Agent.
4. You will see a message explaining what the diagnostic copy is.  Click okay through this screen and then you will get a Token number.
5. Reply to this thread with your Token number and your state. This will allow us to open a copy of your return without seeing any personal information.

TurboTax Desktop:

If you like, you can send a copy of your return that will be scrubbed to eliminate your personal data by using these steps:

1. Click on Online in the top left menu of TurboTax Desktop for Windows
2. Select 'Send Tax File to Agent'* > Follow the prompts to reach the token number.
   • Enter your email used for TurboTax > Enter your code > Send
3. Write down or send an image of your token number and state then place in this issue.
4. We can then review your exact scenario for a solution.
5. Please also tell us any states included in the return. This is necessary for us to view the return.
   • *If using a MAC, go to the menu at the top of the screen, select Help, then, 'Send Tax File to Agent')

We will be able to see exactly what you are seeing and we can determine what exactly is going on in your return to provide you with a resolution.

[user17696301851]

I have my token number, but I haven't gone through the state portion of the return yet. My state will be Kansas with income earned in Missouri as well.

Verifying - do I need to post the token in a reply on this forum or to an email somewhere?

[ThomasM125]

You would need to enter the token number in this forum. You can try deleting Form 2441, the dependent care credit form, which should then allow you to re-enter your child and dependent care credit information. You can do the following to delete the form:

1. Choose the Tax Tools option on your left menu bar while working on your return

2. Choose Tools

3. Choose the Delete a form option under Other Helpful links 

4. Find Form 2441 in the list and delete it