Thanks! I do plan on letting the ex know the filing status. I do know she will attempt to claim all these credits/filing statuses. I am all to familiar with the letters from when she has previously tried to claim an estimated tax payment I made during our divorce year. It caused my refund to be held up, but was easily resolved when I called the IRS. I am just trying to get my ducks in a row. I know I have the legal right now to file as head of household and claim daycare expenses. I just don't want to open that can of worms until absolutely necessary after the end of the year. Thank you again for your input. This situation is all new this year with it being the first year I have had my children more than 1/2 the nights of the year. Any input is appreciated.
