@amac_red77 wrote:
Thank you for explaining how this works, @Opus 17 . I'm just going to have it done via email and get the originals when I get them @Bsch4477 . Both of you are right, there's no reason to chance it.
The IRS instructions state that you must mail an original signed form, not a copy or PDF. However, it's not clear that the data entry person will care. You can certainly try and e-file, mail the PDF with the cover page, and see what happens.
Also note, you don't have to send a new 8332 for each year. If your ex agrees, she can sign a form releasing the claim for all future years. You would be required to mail the original signed form the first year and then mail a copy every future year. It's not necessary that you have a new original form each year.
Lastly, you should be aware that the ability to claim a child as a dependent based on a signature release ends when the child turns 18. When the child is 18, the ability to claim them as a dependent reverts to the usual rules which consider residency and support, and you can't use a signature release to claim a child that doesn't qualify, even if your ex would agree.
