What does question "Someone else can claim ... on there return" mean?

[vivekbansalin]

We have 2 minor kids, who are on my wife's insurace. What does question "Someone else can claim ... on there return" mean in this case.

Can both of us say no to this?

[Coleen3]

Are you filing a joint return?

[vivekbansalin]

Yes, we will be filling joint return

[Vanessa]

Then no one else can claim them generally.

[Vanessa · Accepted solution]

This generally applies to divorced couples or someone that lives with the other parent but are not married.

If you are filing a joint return, and no one else supports your kids, you would say No to the question.  If you are filing separate returns then you would both answer yes, as either of you could claim them.