Do I need to amend my taxes to add a child to my 2021 tax return? I just got his social.

[DoninGA]

You can add the child as a dependent on the amended 2021 tax return.  However, the child will not be eligible for the Child Tax Credit since the SSN was issued after the 2021 tax return due date.  You may be able to receive the Other Dependent tax credit of $500, if eligible, for the child.

See this TurboTax support FAQ for amending a 2021 tax return - https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/tax-return/amend-2021-return/L1gEU4G3X_U...

[Opus 17]

For most benefits associated with a dependent (including the $2000 child tax credit and EIC), the child must have an SSN when you file an on-time tax return.  Filing an amended return will not award you these benefits.

However, there may be other tax benefits of claiming a child dependent, such as the ability to file as head of household (if you meet the other qualifications and did not file that way before) or claiming the credit for day care expenses (if you meet the other qualifications).  It depends on your exact circumstances.

[Critter-3]

When was the SS# issued ?  What is the date on the card ?  

[NCperson]

@jayn54lyf - ugh..... as stated by others, the issue date on the SS card must have an issue date prior to April 17, 2022 - that is part of the law Congress passed - no wiggle room or exceptions.  further, while you are otherwise eligible for the $500 other dependenet cvredit, note that it is limited by the amount on Line 18, i.e. the credit is the lesser of Line 18 or $500.   

[jayn54lyf]

It was issued November 22 2021 I never received it in the mail so it was issued before the tax deadline I just didn't receive it until recently so would I need to amend my taxes 

[DoninGA]

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@jayn54lyf wrote:

It was issued November 22 2021 I never received it in the mail so it was issued before the tax deadline I just didn't receive it until recently so would I need to amend my taxes 

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Yes, amend your 2021 tax return to include the dependent child.  Since the SSN was issued before the due date of the 2021 tax return you may be eligible for the Child Tax Credit.