Upcoming Event
Free Newsletter
Deposit Photos
Deposit Photos
More than 19,000 Colorado care workers claim state tax credit
ColoradoBiz Staff //May 18, 2026//
In Brief:
- 19,261 care workers applied for Colorado tax credit
- Up to $23.1 million estimated return to eligible workers
- Credit provides up to $1,200 for care workers
- Dr. Lisa Roy highlights undercompensation of care professionals
DENVER — More than 19,000 Colorado care workers claimed the state’s Care Worker Tax Credit during its first year, according to the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and the Colorado Department of Revenue.
As of April 15, 19,261 workers had applied for the refundable state income tax credit, including 17,465 early childhood educators in licensed child care settings and 1,796 Family, Friend and Neighbor providers who completed required attestations through the Colorado Shines Professional Development Information System.
State officials estimate the program could return up to $23.1 million to eligible workers across Colorado’s early childhood system. Final data on credits claimed will not be available for about 18 months, according to the Department of Revenue.
The credit provides up to $1,200 for eligible care workers, including licensed child care professionals, FFN providers and direct care workers serving older adults and people with disabilities.
“For too long, early childhood and direct care professionals have been undercompensated, despite the essential role they play in our communities and economy,” said Dr. Lisa Roy, executive director of the Colorado Department of Early Childhood. “We are excited to see strong participation in this first year.”
Eligible workers must earn less than $75,000 for single filers or $100,000 for joint filers and complete the required attestation process to receive the credit.
Licensed child care educators with an Early Childhood Professional Credential may also qualify for an additional Early Childhood Educator Tax Credit ranging from $872 to $1,743, depending on credential level. That tax credit is scheduled to expire after the 2025 tax year.
The state will continue accepting Care Worker Tax Credit attestations through the Oct. 15 tax extension deadline. Workers who already filed taxes may still claim the credit by submitting an amended return.
t
