Can i claim my cousin and her 2 kids as dependents and get a refund for them since I provided for them all year and they have lived with me all year, their income is 0.

[chey-brandt]

My cousin is 21, her kids are 3 yrs and a 4 month old. I've supported them all year and they have lived with me all year. Their income is $1000 for the whole year. Will I get a refund for the kids and a deduction for her?

[Hal_Al · Accepted solution]

Yes, if they lived with you all year. But don't expect much. A cousin is not closely enough related to be a "Qualifying Child" for the Earned Income Credit (EIC) or Child Tax credit.

All you will be able to claim is the $4050 exemption, for each dependent. The exemption is just a deduction from income before tax is calculated and is not a refund.

[hammettlamesha]

Good answer