Final answer:
Samson and Jacqueline can claim a total of $10,000 in adoption expenses on their 2022 tax return, as the adoption was finalized in that year. The federal adoption credit limit is within the allowable amount.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Samson and Jacqueline wish to claim their adoption expenses as early as possible, they can do so in the tax year when the adoption becomes final. Given that the adoption was finalized on April 25, 2022, they can claim the expenses on their 2022 tax return.
The adoption credit is a nonrefundable credit that can be claimed on federal income taxes for the costs associated with the legal adoption of an eligible child. In their case, they can claim $2,500 for the expenses incurred in 2020, $2,500 for 2021, and $5,000 for 2022, totaling $10,000.
It's also important to note that the federal adoption tax credit limit for 2022 is $14,890 per child. Therefore, their total expenses of $10,000 fall within the maximum allowable amount. They should consult the IRS Form 8839, "Qualified Adoption Expenses," to provide the necessary documentation and to calculate the exact credit amount they are eligible to receive.