1. Your expenses must be for the care of one or more qualifying persons.

2. Your expenses for care must be work-related.  Which means you must pay for the care so you can work or look for work. This rule also applies to your spouse if you file a joint return.

3. You must have earned income from wages, salaries, tips and/or self-employment. This applies to your spouse as well if you file jointly.

4. If you’re married you must file a joint return to take the credit. This does not apply if you are legally separated or if you and your spouse live apart.

5. You may qualify for the credit whether you pay for care at home, a daycare facility or day camp.

6. The credit is a percentage of the qualified expenses you pay.

7. You may be able to claim it for care you pay for throughout the year.

8. Overnight camp and summer school tutoring costs do not qualify.

9. Remember you may be able to claim this credit for care you pay for throughout the year.