What is the difference between the Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit?

The Child Tax Credit (up to $2,000 per child under 17) reduces tax owed based solely on having qualifying children — it does not require childcare expenses. The Child and Dependent Care Credit (up to 35% of $3,000 for one dependent, $6,000 for two or more) offsets actual childcare costs you paid so you could work or look for work. Both can be claimed in the same year for the same child.