Changing my dependant status for my mom

[kjonker]

Hi,

I filed my return and it got accepted by the IRS, however, I forgot to click that my mom is claiming me as her dependent.  I am aware that I now have to amend my return, but can I send in my mom's return out sooner than my amendment and will it be accepted? What do I need to send out in regards to my mom's return besides her W2 and 1040? Also, where on the 1040x do I state my change in my tax return? Please advise. 

[Irene2805]

You can file your Mom's return, but you will have to print it and mail it in, because the IRS computer has already received a return with your SSN on it.  Any other returns containing your SSN will be rejected.  Include with her return copies of any W-2s as well as another other income statements that show withholding.

You can amend your return to reflect that you are a dependent using these steps:

1. Sign back in to the return.
2. In the 2019 section, click Amend (change) your return.
3. Click the box Amend Using TurboTax Online
4. On the next screen, click the box Changing other info on my return and then Continue.
5. On the screen, Here's the info for your amended federal return, click the Update box next to Personal Info
6. Click Edit next to your name.
7. In Section 3, A few other things we need to know, mark the Yes radio button to answer the questions:  **Someone else can claim me as a dependent on their tax return; and **And this person will claim me on their 2019 tax return.  
8. Continue through the screens, including amending a state return, if applicable.
9. You will eventually come to a screen, Here are the numbers for your amended return.  From here you will be prompted with the steps to print and file the 1040X.

The 1040X form (amended)return won't be available until probably late-February.  For current information on forms availability please click on the applicable link below:

• Federal forms
• State forms

IMPORTANT:  Meanwhile, DO NOT go in and start changing anything on your return in the system, or you will make a mess for yourself.  Sit tight and wait until you see what the IRS does with the return you just e-filed.

[kjonker]

Thanks! Also, can we both go ahead and file out state returns or do we need to wait for the amended federal return?

[JohnW222]

You can go ahead and file your state returns.

[Itz_pham1]

My mom tried to file a return but it got rejected. Do I just file her return without a dependent for now until I can amend mine? And then she can amend and change her return to file me as a dependent? Or should she wait to file a return?

[CatinaT1]

Your mom will need to file a paper return because hers will be rejected saying you have already been a primary tax payer on another return.  There is no way to get around the e-file system once you have already filed and claimed yourself.  

You will need to amend your return to indicate someone else is claiming you.

See this TurboTax FAQ for help with amending.

This article will give your mom instruction on how to print and mail her return.

[Itz_pham1]

Thanks!!! So my mom can file a paper return "claiming me as a dependent" and mail it in...correct?  And I just fill out an AMENDING FORM 1040X and mail it in??? Do I stick my 1040X form in with her return?

[CatinaT1]

Yes, you mom can file a paper return claiming you.  Send your amendment separate from her return.