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Level 2
Feb 13, 2025 5:30 AM UTC
Solved

Splitting dependents

For non-married couple with 2 children, both make close to the same income…. Would it be more beneficial for each to claim 1 child to maximize the EITC?   (since a 2nd child doesn’t double the credit amount) 

Hal_Al
Hal_AlAnswer
Level 15
Feb 13, 2025 1:07 PM UTC

Expert Reviewed

Yes, probably.  The only way yo be sure is to do test returns.  That's much easier using download TurboTax, rather than the online version, Or you can use this tool.

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/calculators/taxcaster/?s=1.

Only one of you can use Head of Household filing status. 

In order to claim Head of Household  (HoH)  filing status, you must be claiming a dependent and you must be the partner that paid more than half of the household expenses. 

 

 

 

 

2 replies

Hal_Al
Level 15
Hal_AlLevel 15Answer
Level 15
Feb 13, 2025 1:07 PM UTC

Expert Reviewed

Yes, probably.  The only way yo be sure is to do test returns.  That's much easier using download TurboTax, rather than the online version, Or you can use this tool.

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/calculators/taxcaster/?s=1.

Only one of you can use Head of Household filing status. 

In order to claim Head of Household  (HoH)  filing status, you must be claiming a dependent and you must be the partner that paid more than half of the household expenses. 

 

 

 

 

shan-neeAuthor
Level 2
Feb 14, 2025 5:58 AM UTC

THANKS;)