A dependent is a person whose care and income were largely provided by a taxpayer during the year. For the purpose of paying taxes and filing tax returns, being able to claim a dependent means you can access certain deductions and credits, which can ultimately lower your tax burden.

Who are considered Dependants?

Generally dependents are your spouse or domestic partner and/or any kids under 26 years old. A child can be biological, legally adopted, or a stepchild. Otherwise, who you can claim as a dependent varies by state: California: Temporary custody is not sufficient to claim someone as a dependent.

Can you claim a married person as a dependent?

Generally, you may not claim a married person as a dependent if they file a joint return with their spouse. Also, to claim someone as a dependent, that person must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien, U.S. national or resident of Canada or Mexico for some part of the year.

How does a dependent file a tax return?

A small but key part of filling out a tax return as a dependent: Check the box that says “Someone can claim you as a dependent.” From there, your income and other factors will influence your tax bracket, standard deduction (if you choose to take it) and a number of other items on your tax return.

What are the requirements to claim someone as a dependent?

In order to claim someone as your dependent, the person must be: Unmarried or, if married, not filing a joint return or only filing a joint return to claim a refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid. Additionally, you must meet the dependent taxpayer test.

What do you need to know about dependents and exemptions?

You generally can take an exemption for each of your dependents. A dependent is your qualifying child or qualifying relative. You must list the social security number of any dependent for whom you claim an exemption. If someone else claims you as a dependent, you may still be required to file your own tax return.

Can a person be a dependent of more than one taxpayer?

No, an individual may be a dependent of only one taxpayer for a tax year. You can claim a child as a dependent if he or she is your qualifying child. Generally, the child is the qualifying child of the custodial parent.