The children were not with their mother for even half of the year. If she did not have any income from working, she is also not eligible for any refund based on claiming the children---although she might think she will get something. If she files first and claims the children, your own e-file will be rejected. But go ahead and prepare your return claiming your nieces/nephews who were with you for more than half the year and who were supported by you. File your tax return by mail. It will be handled and processed differently.
When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s. Use a mailing service that will track it, such as certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.
Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses. Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.
**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.**
