Can I claim my spouse as a dependent if she doesn't work or have any source of income?

Forum|Forum|3 years ago
January 20, 2023
4 replies
13 views

She provides 24 hour care for her mother, who suffers from Alzhiemers/Dementia. She receives no wages for the care she provides.

TurboTax Deluxe Online

Bsch4477

Level 15

A spouse can never be claimed as a dependent.

xmasbaby0

Level 15

No. A spouse can never be claimed as a dependent. File a joint return.

Married Filing Jointly is usually better, even if one spouse had little or no income. When you file a joint return, you and your spouse will get the married filing jointly standard deduction of $25,900 (+$1400 for each spouse 65 or older) You are eligible for more credits including education credits, earned income credit, child and dependent care credit, and a larger income limit to receive the child tax credit.

**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**

xmasbaby0

Level 15

Oh, and by the way if she is taking care of her mother with dementia she is WORKING ----she is just not being paid. She is working harder than lots of people who are receiving paychecks.

VolvoGirl

Level 15

No. You just file a Joint return for the both of you even if one spouse has no income. You get a higher Standard Deduction. Joint is better than filing Single or Separately.