Can I revise the non-resident returns for 2017 as a resident if I became a resident for the following year (2018)

[Anonymous]

I was a non resident for 2017 and filed my returns last year under the non-resident category. I was a resident for 2018 so will be filing as a resident this year

I was recently informed by a friend (not sure if this is actually true) that now that I am a resident, I can refile a revised return for 2017 under resident category and claim the benefits / exemptions that are not available to non-resident (such as child care) and get an additional refund. 

However, I could not find any information about this online or on IRS. Could someone please help confirm if this is the case?

[Stinkerbellkity · Accepted solution]

No, your 2017 return can only reflect your status in 2017.  You can't change it retroactively to a different status that applies only to 2018.