How to amend a return to remove a dependent so the intended parent can claim them?

[MarilynG1]

If you both Efiled and both your returns are Pending, the second filing with a duplicate dependent will be Rejected, unless they filed with an IP PIN.  When that happens, the second filer can remove the duplicate dependent and Efile again.  Here's How to  Get an IP PIN. 

If the second filer is actually entitled to claim the dependent, the first filer will need to Amend their return (after their refund has been received) and mail it in.  

Here's more info on How to Amend a Tax Return.

@Sudneu2772 

[Sailorspoon94]

Hey, so I filed my amendment online and my boyfriend submitted his tax return via mail after I was notified by my state that they received my amendment and should be completed with 12 weeks being the longest. He submitted his returns 14 weeks later, it was accepted federally but not by the state. They cited that our daughter was being claimed by me, but my amendment was already completed. We’re still trying to get that money that he’s owed from them. 

[DavidD66]

Did you also file an amended state return?  If not, then you need to do so.  If you did, I suggest you call your state to find out what you need to do to clear up the situation.  Both you and your boyfriend should be there so you can both speak to the state representative. Or you can be patient and wait on the state to sort it out.

[Mike9241]

what year are you asking about because 14 weeks have not passed for the 2024 filing season? however, it may be best to call the state if you've already filed an amended state return.

[Hay0320]

How do you input this Identity Protection Personal Identification Number once you get one? 

[xmasbaby0]

@Hay0320

If you have a 6 digit PIN issued to you by the IRS you need to enter it in order to e-file.  Go to Federal>Other Tax Situations>Other Return Info>Identity Protection PIN and enter the six-digit PIN.

[stephii94]

This is my current situation. My children’s father and I are not married, yet we share two kids together. Now I see where it went wrong because I entered their social security numbers and when he did it too, he got rejected. So, he would have to file a paper return by mail after I go in and amend my taxes. 

[xmasbaby0]

@stephii94 When all of you live together as a family, the children should only be entered on ONE tax return.

If you are a non-married couple who live together with your child, then only one of you can claim the child(ren) and the one not claiming the child does not enter anything at all on their tax return about the child.   The “sharing” of child-related credits you may have heard about is only possible between divorced or never married parents who live apart and share custody and who have a written agreement to share the credits.    The child’s SSN can only be entered on one tax return.   Any other return with the child’s SSN on it will be rejected.   If you are a family, then work out how to share the refund between yourselves.

If the children were already claimed on your return, but you both want the other parent to claim them, then your own return must be amended to remove the children completely.   The other parent must file by mail; any attempts to e-file with the children's SSN's will be rejected.   He does not have to wait for you to amend.  His return can be mailed whenever he has it ready to put in an envelope.

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.  Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses.  Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

[stephii94]

Would they need my W2 as well, or just his?

[xmasbaby0]

His return should include only his own W-2.   Do not put yours with it.  You are not filing a joint return.

[DianeW777]

Yes, that is correct.  Once you amend your return, which can be done electronically, then your children's father can claim the child or children. The father will then have to mail his return because e-file may continue to reject due to the timing of all the data being in the IRS system.

• How do I amend my federal tax return for this year?

If the father does not live with the children then you must supply him with Form 8332 which must be filed with his return as well. You can click the link and complete the form. Only the custodial parent can release the dependent child or children to the noncustodial parent.

• IRS FAQ Custodial Parent

@stephii94 

[Edited: 03/08/2025 | 6:37 AM PST]

[vtruong46]

I accidently claimed my child this tax year (2024) and was not the intended parent this year.  After submitting my initial return on 3/29/25.  I realized the mistake and submitted an amendment the next day (3/30/25) via TurboTax to remove my dependent.  

My ex-wife was the intended parent however when trying to add the dependent on; her return was rejected.  Both my initial and amendment was received by the IRS (Federal & State) and she was still unable to add the dependent and submit.  

1).  Did I amend my taxes too soon since the initial submission just went through the day before?

2). What recommended steps should my ex-wife take to ensure she can add the dependent on time before the 4/15/25 deadline?

Any advice or guidance is greatly appreciated.  Thank you so much in advanced.

[xmasbaby0]

The other parent has been blocked from e-filing by your use of the child's SSN.  Even if you amended, she will have to file by mail this year.  She can claim the child but must print, sign and date her return in ink, and mail it.  Waiting for your amended return to be processed will not help her.  She cannot e-file.