Dependents

[Justinlee89]

Wondering when things changed where a girlfriend or boyfriend can claim kids that aren't biologically theirs on taxes returns?

From what I'm reading, they have to be blood/related in or to claim them and get the CTC and ETIC.

Back in the day, I know alot of people who would have others claim their kids and it be just fine.

[Vanessa A]

Many tax laws changed in 2018 with the 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act.  This is when the Other Dependent Credit was introduced. 

You are correct in what you are reading.  In order to claim the CTC or the EITC, the child does have to be blood related, a step child or placed with you as a foster child by the court or an adopted child.  You can not claim a child for these two credits that is just living with you without an actual legal relationship or kinship.