I’m filling an injured spouse form. We have four kids. how would I make sure to get the most money back? Can I put all 4 kids under me on the form? I’m in bad shape

[chris16]

I’m trying to figure out how to get the most back on an injured spouse form. My husband made more money but our refund was offset from a student loan. We have four kids and I’m about to have another one anytime. He’s out of work due to a fall and surgery and he is our only income now. Can I claim all four kids on the form to get more money back? Please help! I am so confused. Thank you 

[JohnW15 · Accepted solution]

Yes, the form, and the IRS' instructions, can be extremely confusing.  It's fine if you allocate the four kids to yourself. 

Here are the IRS' Form 8379 Instructions.  As I say, they're pretty confusing, but they may be of help. 

One pointer:  do not allocate any Earned Income Credit you might get on your return -- the IRS will do this, itself.

[chris16]

Thank you so much! Yes, I am extremely confused as to how to file this form. It doesn’t help that I’m having pregnancy complications and can’t think straight. If I efiled, do I do the form that way or send it in?

[Coleen3]

If you haven't already filed, efile it with your return. Otherwise, mail it in.