@Kionalew
Great question!
If someone else claims your child when they were not supposed to, and if you know that they are filed their tax return, then you would need to mail in your completed tax return. If you e-file your return, it will automatically be rejected because someone else claimed a dependent on their tax return.
You would want to file your return on paper and claim the appropriate children on your return.
This typically means that you will need to "paper-file" your return.
When you file with TurboTax, you will be given specific instructions on what to mail, as well as where to mail your return to.
Once the IRS does process your return, which can take longer than normal, you may receive a letter from the IRS letting you know that a child was claimed on another return. The letter will usually ask you for more information about the child you are claiming.
Normally, the other person that is claiming the child will also receive a letter, asking for proof that they are able to claim the child. Normally, the letter will ask someone to amend their return. If you do receive a letter from the IRS, make sure that you reply to that letter as soon as possible.
Even though their may be more work on your end, the end result should be beneficial to you.
Thanks.
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