General Tax Information

 Thinking about claiming a child who isn’t legally yours — such as a grandchild, niece, nephew, sibling, or even your own child?

🛑 Know the rules before you file 🛑

The IRS is increasing audits and using updated technology to verify dependent claims and parent-child relationships on tax returns.

Before claiming a dependent, make sure they qualify:

✅ The child must have lived with you for more than 6 months out of the year
✅ You should have supporting documents such as school records, medical records, daycare records, or lease agreements
✅ If filing as Head of Household, you must show that you paid more than 50% of household expenses

Keep in mind: even if your refund is approved, the IRS can still audit your return later and require repayment if the claim does not qualify.

Don’t guess when it comes to your taxes, and don’t provide incorrect information on your return. Filing incorrectly could lead to delays, penalties, or future issues with the IRS.

If you’re unsure who qualifies as a dependent, our team is here to help. Call, email, or stop by one of our offices for assistance!