How do I file for Recovery Rebate Tax credit with dependent claim alternating every other year and a new child?

[laurencrest1]

In 2020 my Ex-husband was able to claim our child on his taxes. I assume his third stimulus payment included money for her. In my 2021 taxes, I am able to claim her. I also had a third child in 2021. The Return Rebate Credit is showing that my family (married filing jointly with three dependents this year) should receive a total of $7000. We received $4200.

I may be misunderstanding this but I think we were supposed to receive $5600 instead of $7000 since my ex was able to claim our child on his taxes. How do I claim the amount missing ($1400) instead of the extra amount it is trying to have me claim ($2800)? Or am I misunderstanding this?

[DianeW777 · Accepted solution]

There third stimulus payment of $1,400 per spouse and per child was based on the 2020 tax return however it is actually reconciled based on the 2021 tax return.  The following FAQ pertains to the ex-husband.  

• 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit FAQs:
  • Q3: Change in eligibility.  If I received a third economic impact payment (EIP) AND, based on my 2021 return I am no longer eligible do I need to pay the money back?
  • A3. No, if you qualified for a third payment based on your 2019 or 2020 tax return, the law doesn’t require you to pay back all or part of the payment you received based on the information reported on your 2021 tax return.

On your tax return for 2021 the full amount of this stimulus payment would be $7,000 ($1,400 for each spouse and child, five in your case). Complete your return by answering the questions truthfully which allows the full EIP based on your current circumstances.

[laurencrest1]

Thank you! This was so helpful.