Child care Tax credit

[Kwells347]

I had the Child care tax credit of $600 removed from my refund.  The letter from the IRS states that I have to check the box at the top of form 2441 for meeting the requirement for  Married filing separately.  But I did not file married filing separately I filed as married filing jointly.  So I wouldn't think the box should be checked.

Is it better to respond to the letter or file an amended return with that box checked?

[ColeenD3]

You should be accurate. Look at your  tax return and verify that it says MFJ. If it does, contact the IRS, tell them, and offer to mail the return to them again. If it says MFS, again contact the IRS, tell them you hit the wrong button and that you are filing jointly. Then amend your return.

@Kwells347

[NCperson]

can you go back and check your tax return? Any chance you made a mistake? look at the first page of form 1040 and about 1/3 of the way down is "filing status"

The child care credit is only available in limited circumstances if you file married-separately.  

for some reason, it appears the IRS thinks you filed married-separately  

[Kwells347]

It is showing married filing jointly on first page and the letter they sent us has both of our names on it.  I will just respond to the letter.  Thanks for your help.