Can I claim my little 14 year old sister as a dependent on my taxes?
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Can I claim my little 14 year old sister as a dependent on my taxes?
I live with my mom and 2 sisters; 1 has a baby. My mom does not work and receives a monthly social security check. My mom also receives child support for my little sister weekly.
Asked on June 11, 2011 under Business Law, Oklahoma
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Unfortunately, you may not be able to claim your sister as a dependent unless you have in some way adopted her and further, if you are living under the same roof, your mother is probably filing as head of household or single with dependents. You should all go and speak with a certified public accountant and make sure you check with the state licensing authority to ensure the person you choose or people you choose with whom to consult does not have or do not have disciplinary records. At the end of the day, you will probably need to figure out what is best for your entire household, especially if your mother is getting both social security payments and child support. Is your mother claiming the grandchild as a dependent or is the child's mother of age? You need to address all of these issues to see if you can save some money or figure out a better living configuration.
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