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Level 2
posted Jun 15, 2019 2:19:12 PM

Changing the dependent status on a filed return

My 26-year-old son made just $1,000 working and lived with us the entire year (2018). When he completed his return he stated someone else could and would claim him as a dependent  (my husband and I).  He filed on time and received a nominal refund. My husband and I filed an extension, but now as we are working on preparing our taxes, we find we should NOT claim him as a dependent.  I know we can just remove him from our personal section, but should he file a 1040X? He'll get a bit more back from the IRS and, more importantly, his return would be corrected, right?

0 5 720
5 Replies
Level 15
Jun 16, 2019 8:02:47 PM

If he lived with you the entire year and you provided more than half of his support and he only earned $1,000, he qualifies as your qualifying relative so you can claim him.

Level 15
Jun 16, 2019 8:06:38 PM

Why shouldn't you claim him or not want to?  Is it because of the health ins?  Did he not have any?

Level 2
Jun 16, 2019 8:20:55 PM

He aged out of my employer insurance mid-2018.  I think it will cause problems with his continuing to obtain affordable health insurance if he is our dependent. When he first signed up, the description of household was "anyone he could claim as a dependent," which was just him so he qualified for Medicaid. Now, when he went to renew, the questions all referred back to our work status, income, etc. , since he answered he could be claimed as a dependent. 

Level 15
Jun 17, 2019 7:40:34 AM

I see. Unfortunately by tax law he can be your dependent if he fulfills the criteria I described.

Level 2
Jun 17, 2019 8:34:27 AM

I think at this point,  we will just leave it as is and let the chips fall where they may.  Thanks for your help.