Hal_Al
Level 15

Deductions & credits

Q. Can you pay (all) someone’s bills and claim that money?

A. Simple answer: No.

 

But, as the other replies indicate, there are a few exceptions.  So, it depends on the details.  Paying someone's bills constitutes financial support.  Support is one test (but not the only test) for claiming someone as a dependent, which might allow you a $500 other (other than a child) dependent tax credit.

 

See full dependent rules at: https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/tax-tips/Family/Rules-for-Claiming-a-Dependent-on-Your-Tax-Ret...