Can I claim someone as a dependent who owe back taxes and my return will not be offset

[xmasbaby0]

You will not be obligated to pay tax or have your refund seized by claiming a dependent who owes back taxes.

[BrittanyS]

No, a dependents tax debt will not become your responsibility to pay.  However, you will want to make sure the person qualifies to be a dependent.  To qualify as a dependent, you must meet the following guidelines:

• be a US Citizen, resident alien, or resident of Canada or Mexico
• can not be claimed on anyone else's tax return
• dependent can not claim themselves on their own return
• Spouse can not be claimed as a dependent
• be a qualifying child or relative

For more information on dependents, see the link below:

• Dependents

@shannontrinda