Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit

Were you aware of a potential benefit available to donors who support qualifying YMCA child care programs? The Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Program provides a 50% Colorado income tax credit for eligible contributions. 

Below are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about the tax credit. Have questions that aren't listed here? Please reach out to the Mission Advancement team at missionadvancement@denverymca.org or 303-390-0821. We’re always happy to help! 

What is the Colorado Child Care Tax Credit? 

The Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Program encourages greater support of Colorado child care programs by providing donors with a 50% Colorado income tax credit for eligible contributions. Here is an example of potential tax savings for a gift of $1,000: 
 

Do I need to have children in child care to benefit from this contribution tax credit? 

No. You do not need to have children to be eligible to claim the credit. Eligibility is based on making a qualifying contribution to an eligible child care program. 

Is there a minimum amount I have to donate to receive the credit? 

There is no minimum contribution amount. The maximum Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit an individual may claim in a tax year is $100,000. 

Are Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) eligible for the tax credit? 

Yes, your QCDs may be eligible for the tax credit. Please consult your tax advisor regarding your specific situation. 

Do I have to itemize my taxes if I want to use this credit? 

No. This is a tax credit rather than an itemized deduction, so you may be eligible to claim the credit whether or not you itemize your federal income taxes. Individual tax circumstances vary, so please consult your tax advisor with questions about your specific situation. 

When will I receive my tax credit form? 

For qualifying contributions, you will receive a signed DR 1317, Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Certification, by mail at the beginning of 2027. You will use this form when claiming the credit on your Colorado state income tax return. 

How Do I Claim the Tax Credit? 

To receive the tax credit, you must designate your contribution for the Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Program at the time of your gift or notify the YMCA of your intention. 

You can designate your gift by: 

• Checking the Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit box on our online donation form;
• Writing "Child Care Tax Credit" on the memo line of your check; or
• Contacting the YMCA Mission Advancement Office at missionadvancement@denverymca.org or 303-390-0821. 

Please note that only contributions designated for qualifying child care programs are eligible for the tax credit. 

I've already made a gift this year, but I'm not sure if I designated it for the tax credit. What should I do? 

Our team is happy to help you with this! Please reach out to us by December 31, 2026 at missionadvancement@denverymca.org or 303-390-0821.