Exemptions

[MPLynch]

Head of Household includes the taxpayer and one exemption.  In my case I have 3 dependents (two college students and one high schooler - I provide their support).  Why, when I file my federal 1040 am I only given $18,800 exemption when I have 3 dependents, not just one?  Should not the $18,800 be increased for my two other dependents, especially when they worked part time last summer and when they filed their 1040s, they noted that they were "claimed as dependents on another tax filing (mine)?  Also, they owed taxes and had to pay on the state.  Is $18,800 the cap on the exemption so whether I have 1 dependent or 6, it will not matter - that $18,800 is the maximum exemption no matter how many dependents I have?

[ColeenD3]

The exemption is based on your filing status. Personal and dependent exemptions were eliminated in 2017 with TCJA.

[MPLynch]

Thank you.  I filed as Head of Household.  So with the 2017 changes, that means no additional exemptions are allowed beyond the one - the taxpayer - and one dependent (no others whether I have 3 dependents or 10)?

[DianeW777]

There is no personal (you) or dependent exemptions on the tax return as indicated.  However, the Head of Household filing status does provide a lower income tax bracket and you may be eligible for the child tax credit (CTC), (if children dependents ) or the earned income tax credit (EITC) if you income is within the thresholds.  For dependents that are not children you may be eligible for the other dependent credit (ODC). They are explained in the links below.

• Child Tax Credit
• Earned Income Tax Credit
• Other Dependent Credit