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Not Just for Kids: Child and Dependent Care Credit Benefits for Adult Care

Author

Listed:
  • Pepin, Gabrielle

    (Upjohn Institute for Employment Research)

  • Truskinovsky, Yulya

    (Wayne State University, Detroit)

Abstract

As the U.S. population ages, family caregivers face substantial out-of-pocket costs and financial risks while providing the majority of long-term care. The Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC), a tax credit based on income and care spending, subsidizes caregiving expenses but has low participation among adult caregivers. This paper evaluates the CDCC's current structure, documenting its limited impact on reducing caregiving costs and examining reforms to increase its utility for adult caregivers. Simulations of proposed changes—higher benefits, refundability, and relaxed eligibility requirements—demonstrate potential to expand access and enhance support for family caregivers within the existing policy framework.

Suggested Citation

  • Pepin, Gabrielle & Truskinovsky, Yulya, 2024. "Not Just for Kids: Child and Dependent Care Credit Benefits for Adult Care," IZA Discussion Papers 17560, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17560
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    2. Gabrielle Pepin, 2025. "The Effects of Child Care Subsidies on Paid Child Care Participation and Labor Market Outcomes: Evidence from the Child and Dependent Care Credit," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 78(4), pages 645-666, August.
    3. Neha Bairoliya & Ray Miller & Zhixiu Yu, 2026. "Insurance Through Marriage: Case of Parental Health Shocks and Social Security Claiming," Working Papers 2026-003, Human Capital and Economic Opportunity Working Group.

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    JEL classification:

    • H24 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Personal Income and Other Nonbusiness Taxes and Subsidies
    • J14 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of the Elderly; Economics of the Handicapped; Non-Labor Market Discrimination

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