@Oneillrobert45
If someone else claimed you, as a dependent, inappropriately, and if they file first, your return will be rejected if e-filed. You would then need to file a return on paper, claiming yourself, if appropriate. The IRS will process your return and send you your refund, in the normal time ("normal time" is gonna be longer this year). Shortly (up to a year) thereafter, you’ll receive a letter from the IRS, stating that you were claimed on another return. It will tell you that if you made a mistake to file an amended return and if you didn't make a mistake to do nothing. The other party will get the same letter you did. If one of you doesn't file an amended return, unclaiming the exemption, the next letter, from the IRS, will require you to provide proof. Be sure to reply in a timely manner.
Winner gets the tax benefits; loser gets to pay the IRS back with penalties and interest.
That said, with the tax law change, effective 2018, most dependents will get the same refund whether they claim themselves or not. The personal exemption has been eliminated and the standard deduction increased. Unless you're claiming something special, e.g. the tuition credit. The software will tell you if being a dependent is disqualifying you from a tax benefit.
