Married, have always filed jointly. 3 kids <18, 1 in daycare. My gross is ~$60k.
Looking for clarity on the earned income requirements- or if there’s a minimum of $2500 per earner, or just combined income?
For the Child Care Credit I don't know if there is a minimum amount. Just have earned income.
Child Care FAQ
If one of the spouses is self-employed and showed a loss, then you cannot get the childcare credit. Both spouses have to show earned income in order to get the child care credit.
with only 1 child in daycare, and your adjusted gross income above $43,000 the credit rate is 20% and the maximum credit is $3,000. The maximum credit is determined by multiply the lower of your earned income or hers by 20%, so each of you would need $15,000 in earned income (wages, net schedule c income, se income from partnerships).
there is a further limit to tax liability before this credit.
this assumes your employer is mot providing and dependent care benefits
you should review form 2441 where the credit is computed.