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Level 2
posted Feb 1, 2025 10:12:10 AM

Totally and permanently disabled dependent question

I’m 26 and receiving Ssdi can my mom claim me as a totally and permanently disabled dependent? Does receiving Ssdi automatically qualify my as such? Or do I actually have to get my psychiatrist to fill out some type of paperwork?

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1 Best answer
Expert Alumni
Feb 1, 2025 10:52:48 AM

For the IRS to consider a dependent to be "disabled," they must have a disability that meets one of the following criteria:

 

  • The disability must have lasted continuously for at least one year
  • It will last continuously for at least one year. 
  • The disability can lead to death.

If your disability has lasted continuously for at least one year, and qualified you for SSDI, you can be considered a disabled dependent. Otherwise, to prove your disability qualifies, get a letter from a doctor, healthcare provider or any social service program or agency that can verify the disability.

 

Even though you are over 24, you can still be considered a qualifying child for purposes of the Child Tax Credit. The IRS defines a dependent as a qualifying child (under age 19 or under 24 if a full-time student, or any age if permanently and totally disabled) or a qualifying relative.

 

See this TurboTax tips article and IRS Publication 501 for more information about qualifying dependents.

2 Replies
Expert Alumni
Feb 1, 2025 10:52:48 AM

For the IRS to consider a dependent to be "disabled," they must have a disability that meets one of the following criteria:

 

  • The disability must have lasted continuously for at least one year
  • It will last continuously for at least one year. 
  • The disability can lead to death.

If your disability has lasted continuously for at least one year, and qualified you for SSDI, you can be considered a disabled dependent. Otherwise, to prove your disability qualifies, get a letter from a doctor, healthcare provider or any social service program or agency that can verify the disability.

 

Even though you are over 24, you can still be considered a qualifying child for purposes of the Child Tax Credit. The IRS defines a dependent as a qualifying child (under age 19 or under 24 if a full-time student, or any age if permanently and totally disabled) or a qualifying relative.

 

See this TurboTax tips article and IRS Publication 501 for more information about qualifying dependents.

Level 2
Feb 1, 2025 11:13:13 AM

Awesome thank you so much for the reply this def answered my question!