Amended return - Removing dependent claim

[LLinDaHouse]

If I amend my 2020 tax and remove one of my kid as a dependent, when can that kid amend her tax return to, so she is no longer claimed as a dependent by me on her tax return?  Can we do it at the same time or do I need to get my amended return approved before she amend her return?

[SweetieJean]

First, why did you remove her?  If she qualifies to be your dependent, she is not eligible for her own stimulus payments, even if you choose not to claim her.

Amended returns take 4-6 months to process.

[xmasbaby0]

You can both amend now if you want to and if you are positive the "kid" cannot be claimed as a dependent.  The rule is if they CAN be claimed as a dependent then their return has to say they can be claimed:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/dependents/help/when-do-i-have-to-answer-yes-to-being-claimed-as-a...

Do not expect quick results if you amend.   It is taking the IRS more than the "normal" four months to process amended returns.   Expect it to take at least six months and be pleasantly surprised if it takes less time.

[LLinDaHouse]

I haven't removed her yet, but looking into it.  For 2020, the kiddie tax affects her unearned income(unemployment), so if she filed on her own, it would benefit her.  Is that not allowed if she qualifies as a dependent?

[xmasbaby0]

As already stated----the rule is if she CAN be claimed she is supposed to say on her own return that she can be claimed as someone else's dependent.   It is not a choice.