Why am I not getting the option to claim head of household for my mother-in-law?

[JohnB5677]

I suggest you review the interview for your mother-in-law to confirm that she is a dependent.

You can see this in the My Info (Online) or Personal Info in (Desktop)

Your mother-in-law may be eligible as Qualifying Relatives.

"A qualifying relative must meet general rules for dependents and pass these tests:

• Not a qualifying child: Isn't your qualifying child or the qualifying child of any other taxpayer
• Member of household or relationship: Lives with you all year as a member of your household or is a specific type of relative
• Gross income: Has gross income under $5,050 in 2024 or $5,200 in 2025
• Support: Gets more than half their financial support from you"

Please see the IRS publication Dependents for more details.

Provided they meet these guidelines, you can claim them as dependents.