I am amending my 2019 taxes adding two qualified dependents (parents). I’d expect a $1000 refund ($500 per dependent) but TurboTax shows $0 as a result of this change.

[sinbod]

Why is that?

[xmasbaby0]

You do not get a $500 "refund" for each adult dependent you claim.  If you are able to claim your parents as dependents, you would get the $500 credit for other dependents for each one--which could lower your tax liability.  It is not a refundable credit.

Just so you are aware--if they are claimed as dependents they do not qualify for the $2400 stimulus check for a married couple.

CREDIT FOR OTHER DEPENDENTS

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/4499708-what-is-the-500-credit-for-other-dependents-family-tax-cre...

[sinbod]

Thank you for your expert response.    

What would this mean in terms of real dollars if I amend the return to add the other dependents ?

“$500 credit for other dependents for each one--which could lower your tax liability. “

I have already received a refund. 

thanks again. 

[Critter]

OK ...look at your original return form 1040 line 16 ... that is the max amount that the $500 per person other dependent credit can possibly negate.  So if that amount is already a zero adding more dependents will do you no good. 

If you complete the amendment process then review the 1040X to see if adding dependents will do you any good.

Column A should have the figures from the original return, Column C the corrected figures and Column B the differences between the other 2 which needs an explanation on page 2 of the form 1040X.

If you completed it correctly you will see an entry on either line 16 OR 18:

On line 16 should be the amount you paid with your original return. 

On line 18 should be the amount of your original refund you received.

Then you will see your extra refund on line 22 OR  the new balance due you need to pay on line 20.

[sinbod]

Thank you