topic How do I file as Head of Household with a non-relative dependent? in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

How do I file as Head of Household with a non-relative dependent?

mjwilson1977 — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:42:47 GMT

My GF of 6 years collects disability, has no other income (so below the 4,400 GI requirement. I pay for essentially all our living expenses. It allows me to claim her as a dependent, why can't I file as Head of Household? If through the exceptions she is a qualified dependent, and I pay for essentially everything, I should qualify shouldn't I?

Re: How do I file as Head of Household with a non-relative dependent?

VolvoGirl — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 18:54:57 GMT

She has to be a blood relation to you. Who is a qualifying person for Head of Household

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/family/help/what-is-a-qualifying-person-for-head-of-household/00/26624

Re: How do I file as Head of Household with a non-relative dependent?

DoninGA — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 18:55:53 GMT

If your only dependent on the tax return is a non-relative you cannot have Head of Household filing status. You can only file as Single with this type of dependent.

Re: How do I file as Head of Household with a non-relative dependent?

xmasbaby0 — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 18:56:54 GMT

No. You cannot claim your GF as a qualified dependent in order to file as HOH. The dependent must be related to you. If she fits the criteria to get the $500 credit for other dependents, that's it. She cannot qualify you to file Head of Household

Am I Head of Household?

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894553-do-i-qualify-for-head-of-household

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2900097-what-is-a-qualifying-person-for-head-of-household

If you qualify as Head of Household, when you enter your marital status (single or married filing separately) into MyInfo, and then enter your qualifying dependent, TurboTax will offer HOH as your filing status.

CREDIT FOR OTHER DEPENDENTS

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/4499708-what-is-the-500-credit-for-other-dependents-family-tax-credit