Article: 50580
Overview
If you paid for qualifying childcare expenses while working or looking for work, you may be eligible for the Maine Child Care Credit, which is based on your federal credit amount and adjusted for state-level benefits. The credit is reported on the Child Care Credit Worksheet in your Maine income tax return.
Who Qualifies for the Credit?
You may qualify for the Maine Child Care Credit if:
- You were a Maine resident during the tax year.
- You claimed the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit on your IRS return.
- You had earned income and paid for childcare services that enabled you (and your spouse, if filing jointly) to work or actively seek work.
- The care was provided for one or more qualifying dependents, such as:
- Children under age 13
- Disabled spouses or dependents incapable of self-care
Note: Maine’s credit is refundable for some lower-income filers and may provide additional benefit beyond the federal amount.
How to Report
- Navigate to the State Taxes section on the left-hand side of the screen.
- Click the link: I’d like to see the forms I’ve filled out or search for a form.
- In the dropdown menu, select Maine.
- Click on the Property and Personal Credits tab.
- Select Child Care Credit Worksheet to open the screen.
- Enter all applicable information.
- Click Save once complete.
Additional Resources
This schedule contains supporting details for calculating and entering the Child Care Credit and other adjustments on your Form 1040ME.