Alameda Summer Camp and a Tax Break? Yes, Please!
How Gaia Guides Kids Camp Can Help You Save on Your Taxes
If you’re searching for an amazing summer camp that gets your kids outside and keeps your budget in check—Gaia Guides Kids Camp has good news: Our camp may be tax-deductible as child care under the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit!
Let’s break it down so you can make the most of this benefit while giving your kids a summer to remember.
First Things First: What Is the Child and Dependent Care Credit?
This is a federal tax credit designed to help working parents cover the cost of child care—including certain day campslike Gaia Guides!
Here’s how it works:
You can claim up to $3,000 per child, or $6,000 for two or more children, of qualifying care expenses.
The credit is worth 20% to 35% of those expenses, depending on your income.
It’s available to parents who need child care so they can work or look for work.
That means if your kids attend Gaia Guides while you're working this summer, you may be eligible for a credit on your federal tax return.
Why Gaia Guides Qualifies
Gaia Guides Kids Camp:
Is a day camp (overnight camps don’t qualify)
Provides supervised care for children under 13
Allows parents to work while their children are cared for
Operates under a registered EIN: 87-2342953
In short: We meet the IRS requirements for child care-related expenses!
What About California State Taxes?
While California doesn’t offer a separate child care credit beyond what’s on your federal return, California parents still benefit indirectly:
Claim the credit on your federal taxes using Form 2441.
This reduces your overall tax liability, even as a California resident.
That means while the deduction comes from your federal return, it still puts money back in your pocket—right here in California.
What You’ll Need to Claim the Credit
When filing your federal taxes, be sure to have:
Our camp name: Gaia Guides Kids Camp
Our EIN: 87-2342953
Our address (include your official mailing address here)
The total amount paid for camp
Your child’s name and SSN
A record that you (and your spouse, if filing jointly) were working or job hunting during camp
Most tax software will walk you through this in the "Child and Dependent Care Credit" section. Or you can give this info to your tax preparer.
A Pro Tip for Parents Planning Ahead
When you register for Gaia Guides, keep a copy of your payment confirmation and save our EIN for tax time. It's one more way our camp supports working families and helps you get the most value out of your summer plans.
Questions?
We’re always happy to support our camp families. If you have any questions about how this works or what to ask your tax professional, feel free to reach out.
Here’s to a summer of fun, growth, and financial peace of mind!
– The Gaia Guides Team
