Amended Return-Dependent Status

[jhjames25]

When we filed our 16 year old son’s tax return, we did not check the box to indicate he could be claimed as a dependent so our return claiming him was rejected. I was able to file an amended federal return for him indicating he could be claimed as a dependent. However, our state requires amended returns be mailed. If I decide to just file our return without claiming him, do I still need to mail the amended state return? I just don’t want to get into a situation of having to wait for the state to amend his before I can file. Thank you for the help! 

[xmasbaby0]

If you are waiting for your son's amended return to be processed so you can e-file, give that idea up.  You will not be able to e-file this year, even if his return has been amended.  The only way you can file your returns claiming him is to file by mail.  Print, sign and date your returns in ink, and mail them.

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.  Use a mailing service that will track it, such as certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses.  Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

[jhjames25]

Thank you for your reply! I am going to file ours and not claim his as a dependent this year. Should I still mail the amended return for our state even though I don’t need that dependency status changed? Another question-we will not make this mistake next year-will I be able to claim him as a dependent? Thank you for your help!

[BrittanyS]

If your not going to claim him as a dependent, you don't have to mail the amended return.  Mailing the amended return with the correction would allow you to be able to amend your return later if you choose.  If you do not mail in his amended return and not are claiming him as a dependent you will loose all the credits for having a dependent and any Child Tax Credit for that tax period.  

@jhjames25 

[jhjames25]

Thank you for your help! We have learned a lesson and will not make this mistake next year.