can we take dependent care if spouse was completely bedridden all year?

[russell-nansea42]

Can I take dependent care credit since my husband was bedridden all year?

[Vanessa A]

Yes, if your spouse needs care in order for you to work, you can claim the dependent care credit for expenses related to his care for you to work. If you are not working, you cannot claim this credit. 

Qualifying individual

A qualifying individual for the child and dependent care credit is:

• Your dependent qualifying child who was under age 13 when the care was provided,
• Your spouse who was physically or mentally incapable of self-care and lived with you for more than half of the year, or
• An individual who was physically or mentally incapable of self-care, lived with you for more than half of the year, and either: (a) was your dependent; or (b) could have been your dependent except that he or she received gross income of $5,050 or more, or filed a joint return, or you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) could have been claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer's 2024 return.