Adoption Credit

Adoption Credit

In U.S. tax law, a direct dollar-for-dollar reduction in one's tax liability for each child under the age of 18 that a taxpayer adopts. The adoption credit is intended to reimburse the taxpayer for attorney's fees, court costs, and traveling expenses. The credit is non-refundable, but if the amount of the credit exceeds one's tax liability, it may be carried forward for up to five years. The maximum amount of the adoption credit is adjusted for inflation. See also: Carryforward.

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Adoption Credit

A nonrefundable credit for qualified adoption expenses incurred for each eligible child. The limit on the credit is indexed to inflation. For current figures, see our Adoption Assistance rate table. The limit is a per-child limit, not an annual limit. Any unused credit can be carried forward for five years or until used. For special needs children the full credit is allowed, regardless of the amount of actual expenses.

Copyright © 2008 H&R Block. All Rights Reserved. Reproduced with permission from H&R Block Glossary