4 Overlooked Tax Breaks for New Parents
Kids can score you valuable credits and deductions on your tax return.
Got a new bundle of joy in your household? Here are opportunities to cut your tax bill as you grow your family.
1. Dependency Exemption
Claiming your son or daughter as a dependent will shelter $4,050 of your income from tax in 2016 and 2017.
2. Child Tax Credit
A new baby also delivers a $1,000 child tax credit, and this is a gift that keeps on giving every year until your dependent child turns 17.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
3. Head of Household Filing Status
If you're single, having a child may allow you to file as a head of household rather than using the single filing status. That would give you a bigger standard deduction and more advantageous tax brackets.
4. Adoption Credit
The credit will reimburse you for up to $13,460 in expenses for a 2016 adoption.
Read more about ways parents can lower their tax bills.
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.
-
Looming Jan. 19 TikTok Ban Sparks Tax Rebellion Among Creators
Tax Law The TikTok community faces an uncertain future. However, one thing remains clear: tax laws apply regardless of the app’s fate.
By Kelley R. Taylor Published
-
Macy’s Will Close 66 Stores in 2025 – Check If Your Local Store Is One of Them
Discover why Macy’s is closing 66 stores, where to shop for similar deals and how to maximize savings before stores shut down.
By Brittany Leitner Published
-
Gov. Hochul Vows to Deliver $1 Billion in Tax Relief to New Yorkers
State Tax The proposed tax cuts would benefit New York middle-class families.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Published
-
Maryland Property Tax Assessment: What It Means for You
State Tax Amid a growing deficit, Maryland property values are rising. Here’s more of what to know.
By Kate Schubel Last updated
-
The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): How Much Is It Worth?
Tax Credits This tax break can help you offset $2,500 in qualifying expenses tied to your higher education. Here's what you need to know.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Last updated
-
Does Your State Have a Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit?
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Over two dozen states, plus the District of Columbia offer tax credits or deductions for working families.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Published
-
What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)?
Tax Breaks A QCD can lower your tax bill while meeting your charitable giving goals in retirement. Here’s how.
By Kate Schubel Published
-
New Law Delivers Tax Breaks to Natural Disaster Victims, But Is It Enough?
Tax Relief The legislation provides critical tax relief to thousands of natural disaster victims across the country.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Last updated
-
Five Tax-Savvy Ways To Donate This Holiday Season
Charitable Donations Food pantries, toy drives, and animal sanctuaries are popular ways to support others year-round.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Published
-
Can Tariffs Make Childcare More Affordable?
Tariffs President-elect Trump suggested tariffs can address the childcare crisis, but economists are doubtful.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Published