Do I file an a dependent or independent?

[kaytlinwithers]

I am a homeless youth who has been independent (not emancipated) from my parents since April of 2016. Since April, I have lived in multiple different houses, but have not paid any rent, so I do not believe that I can say that I have provided half of my own financial support. However, there isn't any one person that has provided half of my financial support. Do I file as a dependent? If so, do I say on my tax form that I can be claimed as an independent?

[Howard1948 · Accepted solution]

If your absence from your parent's house is not a temporary situation, they cannot claim you as a dependent since you did not live in their home for more than 1/2 the year.