Splitting dependents

[shan-nee]

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]

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-nee]

THANKS;)