Can I claim a dependent if I file as Single? Or is it mandatory to file as head of household in order to claim a dependent?

[Mike9241]

yes, it is possible.  that person would have to be an unrelated individual who is treated as a qualifying relative only because they were a member of your household for the entire year 2020 or a qualifying relative only because of a multiple support agreement

to be a qualifying relative all these tests must be met

1) unmarried or if married does not file a joint return unless filed only to claim a refund (no tax liability)

2) a US citizen, resident alien or national or a resident of Canada or Mexico

3) not be anyone's qualifying child

4) either lived with the taxpayer for the entire year or be related to the taxpayer

5) their gross income was under $4,300. 

[AnnetteB6 · Accepted solution]

Yes, you can use the Single filing status and claim a dependent.  Your dependent can be either a Qualifying Child or a Qualifying Relative.  

It is not mandatory that you use the Head of Household filing status if you are claiming a dependent on your return.  That is just one option that is available to taxpayers who are claiming a qualifying dependent and meet the other requirements to use that filing status.

To learn more, see the following TurboTax articles:

Who can I claim as a dependent?

Do I qualify for Head of Household in 2020?

@sbarrientos03