I took care of a 3yr old child in my household that's not my child the whole year. Can I claim this child an not have any problems with the IRS holding my tax money?

Is there any proof or anything I need to show this child was in my household? An what do I list the child as since its not mine?
MargaretL
Expert Alumni

Deductions & credits

You can claim the child if all rules below are met:

  • No other taxpayer can claim them as dependents  (such as the child's parents)
  • They lived for the entire year with you, and
  • You paid more than half for their support. 

You don't have to submit any proof with your tax return, but you do need one in case you are audited.

View solution in original post

Deductions & credits

Thanks. What would I list the child as since it's not my child biologically?