Claiming Adult Child as Dependent and Their Taxes

[user17742766374]

I am planning on claiming my 19 year old child as dependent.  They made $3,400 in 2025 and $43.00 was taken out for Federal taxes.   Would it be a better benefit for child to file their own taxes and claim themselves?

[AmyC]

No. The income is low enough that you can claim your 19 year old. This allows you a $500 credit on your return. Your child will only get back the $43 withheld. They can file and mark someone else can claim me as a dependent. This will not affect their return.

If a student, you can claim through age 23 regardless of income, provided you cover more than half the support.