When do I have to answer “yes” to being claimed as a dependent?

A parent, relative, friend, or fiancé (etc.) can claim you as a dependent on their tax return as long as they meet the following requirements:

For a parent to qualify:

• They're related to you.
• You aren't claimed as a dependent by someone else.
• You’re a U.S. citizen, resident alien, national, or a Canadian or Mexican resident.
• You aren’t filing a joint return with your spouse.
• You’re under the age of 19 (or 24 for full-time students).
  • No age limit for anyone permanently and totally disabled.
• You lived with the parent for more than half the year (exceptions apply).
• You didn't provide more than half of your own support for the year.

For a relative to qualify:

• You don't have to be related to them (despite the term relative).
• You aren't claimed as a dependent by someone else.
• You’re a U.S. citizen, resident alien, national, or a Canadian or Mexican resident.
• You aren’t filing a joint return with your spouse.
• You lived with the relative for the entire year (exceptions apply).
• You made less than $4,300 in 2020.
• They provided more than half of your financial support.

If you’re being claimed on someone else’s return, but have a W-2 for a job, you must report your earned income on your own return for a refund of some of your withheld wages. The person claiming you cannot include your W-2 info on their return.