@amberduhh The IRS cares who is the custodial parent---the parent the child lives with the most--at least 183 nights in the tax year. As far as the IRS is concerned, that is who can claim the child. If you and the other parent have a signed Form 8332, then the non-custodial parent can claim the child tax credit, but the custodial parent retains the right to file as Head of Household, get earned income credit and the childcare credit. If there is no signed 8332, then the custodial parent can get child tax credit too--which must be what you referred to when you said you got $2000.
Whether your ex gets the mail and responds to it is in the category of not your problem. If and when YOU get any mail from the IRS, respond appropriately and promptly to provide whatever information they request.
If anything--be prepared to prove your child lives with you. School and medical dental /records can help with that.
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
