What is the maximum dependent care limit for tax purposes?

The maximum dependent care limit for tax purposes is indeed $5,000 for most taxpayers. This limit applies to the Child and Dependent Care Credit, which is designed to provide assistance to working parents who incur expenses for the care of qualifying children or dependents while they are employed or looking for work.

The $5,000 limit applies for married couples filing jointly and single taxpayers. However, for married individuals filing separately, the limit is reduced to $2,500. The care expenses must be necessary for the taxpayer to work or look for work, and the credit is calculated based on a percentage of those expenses, depending on the taxpayer's adjusted gross income.

The higher amounts in the other choices do not align with current tax law regarding the dependent care credit, which is set to $5,000 as specified. Thus, the choice of $5,000 correctly reflects the maximum amount eligible for the credit, making it the accurate answer.