Do I claim as dependent or independent?

[selins241]

I am a US citizen, but my parents live abroad and they are not US citizens. They do help me out financially, however, I have an income too. When filing for taxes do I claim to be dependent or independent? I am scared if I claim as independent, they will notice that my expenses don't add up with my income.

Thanks!

[Opus 17]

The rules to be claimed as a dependent for tax purposes are contained in publication 501.  

I believe the question on the tax return is worded “can another US taxpayer claim you as a dependent” which is probably “no” unless they have US-sources income and file a non-resident return.  

Also, you can’t be claimed as a dependent by parents you don’t live with if your taxable income is more than $4200.  (The conditions are different if you did live with your parents.)

so odds are, you can’t be claimed as a dependent and don’t have to check the box.