i completely erased the kids. Didn’t matter. I ran into a similar problem when filing in 2019. I actually called (the enemy) H&R block and asked the tax specialist about a credit that i didn’t want. She informed me to say i received the credit even though i didn’t. My ex-wanted to claim the credit and she was correct and it all worked itself out . IRS will cross reference social security numbers and see everything. I remember saying “no way i’m not lying on my return!” she said “ok then don’t lie and get the money. then you’ll really be in trouble when your ex claims the kids” she was 100% right.
