I have custody of my two children. They collect SSI from their mother. I claimed that income on my 2017 taxes. Was I suppose to or not. And how does it effect my return?

[MichaelL1 · Accepted solution]

The children's SSI should be listed in their names with their SSN's on the statement from Social Security and should not be reported on your return.

It impacts your return, by overstating the income reported and most likely overpaying your taxes.

If your children receive Social Security survivors/disability benefits, that is income to them, not to you. You do not enter it on your tax return. ... If the child has enough other income to be required to file, then the child reports the SS on the child's return.

If you did this, wait for your return to be processed and you get your refund and then file an amended return.

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