Question about dependent status and maximizing return for older student

[vrose23]

Hi,

I'll be 26 in Jan. 2017. I'm a full time student in a graduate level program and currently living at home with my dad. I pay for all my other expenses besides housing. For 2016 my income will probably come in around $5800 - $6000. My dad wants to claim me as a dependent but I want to know

1. if he can claim me because I'm older than 24 and 

2. whether my benefits will be maximized if I let him claim me as a dependent or if I file independently.

Thanks!

[DoninGA · Accepted solution]

He cannot claim you as dependent.  You are older than 23 and your income for 2016 is $4,050 or more.

• Under the Qualifying Child rules you must be under the age of 24 and a full time student.
• Under the Qualifying Relative rules you must have gross income of less than $4,050 for 2016.

[SweetieJean]

And you cannot just decide to "let" him claim you anyway.