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Returning Member
posted Feb 1, 2022 7:39:51 AM

It shows I have a 3,200 child and dependent care credit, but it is not actually being used in my taxes due calculation

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1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Feb 1, 2022 8:16:35 AM

I surmise you are seeing the credit on the "Deductions & Credits" summary page but not seeing your tax due or refund change.  It is better if you look at your form 1040 and schedule 3 to see what is actually happening on your tax return.

 

To view your 1040:

 

  1. "Tax Tools" in the left hand menu
  2. "Tools"
  3. "View Tax Summary" in the main screen
  4. "Preview my 1040" in the left hand menu

Look at Line 31 which flows from Schedule 3, line 15.  This will include the Dependent Care Credit as a refundable credit.  The credit is refundable if you and your spouse, if applicable, resided in the US.  If the credit is not showing there then "Revisit" the topic and ensure you indicate you lived in the US.

 

If you did not live in the US for more than half of 2021 the credit is non-refundable.  It will show up on line 20 which flows from Schedule 3 line 8 and will only be used to reduce your income tax on line 18 to zero.