I am a 22 year old college student who is enrolled full time. I have a part time job earning ~25k a year. I had my own apartment from 8/2024- to present. I do not return home on breaks since I do not have a bedroom at my parents anymore. I have FAFSA loans in my name only. I pay for my own gas, clothing, IRA contributions, rent, utilities, groceries, and school expenses, ~1200/month. In the 2025 school year I used ~$2600 of a 529 that my parents set up, but the remaining school expenses I paid myself. My parents also paid ~$1500 of health care expenses and ~600 in car insurance. My parents want to claim me as a dependent, and I don't know if they can. Nothing is straightforward and I can't find a yes or no answer. Last year when we did taxes, my apartment was considered temporary absence, but I don't intend to return home after I graduate, so I don't know why it's temporary.
