Do I need to do an amended form?

[sepaskis]

I filed as an independent this year, I am a full time student under 24, I checked that I don't pay for half of my expenses, and I still live with my parents. My return was approved but I haven't gotten it back yet. My parents are NOT going to claim me as an independent on their taxes. Do I need to file for an amended return?

[ColeenD3]

You are not independent. You meet every single qualification. It is irrelevant whether or not your parents claim you. Yes, you need to amend, but the forms are not available yet.

Qualifying Child

Relationship — the taxpayer’s child or stepchild (whether by blood or adoption), foster child, sibling or step-sibling, or a descendant of one of these.

Residence — has the same principal residence as the taxpayer for more than half the tax year. Exceptions apply, in certain cases, for children of divorced or separated parents, kidnapped children, temporary absences, and for children who were born or died during the year.

Age — must be under the age of 19 at the end of the tax year, or under the age of 24 if a full-time student for at least five months of the year, or be permanently and totally disabled at any time during the year.

Support — did not provide more than one-half of his/her own support for the year.

[sepaskis]

Thank you so much! I didn’t know about it and someone told me today that I shouldn’t have done that. I won’t get penalized for it as long as I file an amended form right ? I just want to make sure I’m not going to get penalized for this mistake. 

[JohnB5677]

No, you will not be penalized.  The IRS receives millions of amended tax returns for multiple years.  This will be considered in stride for the IRS.

To amend a return 

Some quick ground rules:

1. Be sure the original return was filed and accepted.
2. Save the original return before you start the amendment.
3. Change the name of the amended return.
4. DO NOT go back into the return or change anything before you start the amendment process.
5. Gather everything you need before you start.
6. Complete the entire amendment process before you log out.
7. Starting with 2020 tax returns you can E-File a 1040-X amended tax return.  All prior years must be printed and mailed.

 You can correct a return that you've already filed and had accepted.  Select the year that applies and use this guide to proceed.

Select your tax year for amending instructions:

• 2020
• 2019
• 2018
• 2017

For additional information please refer to  How to Amend

The 1040X (Amended Return) tax form is scheduled to be available 03/25/2021.