Tax Time: Can I claim tutoring?

Upon doing some research on this topic, I’ve found a new credit that you can claim in 2011.  Many of you will be familiar with the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit (click on the link here if you want more information on that).  This new tax credit is effective in the tax year of 2011 and subsequent years.  It is called the Children’s Arts Tax Credit and can be used to claim up to $500 for each of your children under 16 years of age.   Please look at the website for detailed information, but the basics are here:
Eligible Programs – (each program has a specific percentage of eligible activities required)

• A weekly program (min. 8 weeks long)
• A five day long program (spring break programs/summer programs may apply here)
• An 8 week program offered by a club or organization
• An 8 week or longer membership in an organization

Eligible Activities
“Eligible activities will include an activity that:

• contributes to the development of creative skills or expertise in artistic or cultural activities;
• provides a substantial focus on wilderness and the natural environment;
• helps children develop and use particular intellectual skills;
• includes structured interaction among children where supervisors teach or help children develop interpersonal skills; or
• provides enrichment or tutoring in academic subjects.”

This is definitely something worthwhile checking out.  Please let me know if you need additional information on your receipts, or a yearly receipt made up and I’d be happy to help!