Disabled Dependent

[csewell56]

My daughter is 6 years old and is autistic, ADHD, and Nonverbal.  Can we claim an extra exemption for her disability?  She does not receive any benefits.  If so, where do we claim it?

[xmasbaby0]

Do I get a credit or deduction if my child is disabled?

If your child is older than 12 and you need to pay someone to take care of him while you work, you can say he is disabled and you can still get the childcare credit on your federal return.   Or if he is 19 or older you may still be able to claim him as a qualifying child dependent on your federal return.

Aside from those things, there is no federal tax advantage to saying that your child is disabled.   Your state tax laws might be different.

[DoninGA]

There are no additional benefits or deductions for a disabled child. 

When she is age 13 or older you can claim Child and Dependent Care expenses, since she is disabled, so that you can work. 

When she is age 19 or older you can claim her under the Qualifying Child rules if she permanently and totally disabled.

[AmyC]

No, a disabled child does not have an extra exemption.  You do mark the child as disabled. This  will allow you to claim as medical expenses any home modification necessary along with EITC and child care. 

References:

IRS Disability and EITC

Tax Tips for the Disabled

Tax Credits for Disabled Dependents

Claiming a dependent