topic Student during the co-op program qualifies as a dependent? in Education

Student during the co-op program qualifies as a dependent?

catkik — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 02:42:58 GMT

My 20-year old daughter is a full time student. Last tax year, she participated in a coop program Fall and Spring semester, and took actual classes only in the summer. The school considers this coop program an accredited academic program. From the school's website, "The Co-op program is an accredited academic program in which students gain valuable work experience in their major by alternating between full-time study and at least three semesters of full- time paid work with the same employer."

Since the coop program was paid, she made $30,000 during the two coop semesters. She lived at home, and we provided for most of her expenses, living, food, transportation.

Can we still claim her as a dependent? Does her income matter in the test of parents providing half of her support?

Re: Student during the co-op program qualifies as a dependent?

MindyB — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 02:48:22 GMT

Yes, you can still claim her. As a full-time student under 24, she can make any amount and still be your dependent as long as she did not provide half or more of her own support.

Here is some more detailed information: Rules for Claiming Dependents on Taxes

Re: Student during the co-op program qualifies as a dependent?

catkik — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 20:13:45 GMT

thank you!