Contributed by: KeriC, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro
If someone else is claiming you as dependent it can be tricky to know how to handle your tax situation. Do you include your income on their return or file your own return? Do you have to report your income at all? In this situation, there are a few different income criteria that apply depending on age and whether you are a married or single taxpayer.
What are the rules for filing a tax return as a dependent?
The IRS income requirements are adjusted each year for inflation. Go to IRS.gov to view the current year filing requirements.
What are the benefits of filing a tax return as a dependent if my income is below the filing requirement?
Even if you aren’t required to file a tax return as a dependent, you may still want to do so if you’re eligible for certain tax credits or refunds. For example:
- You may receive the earned income tax credit (EITC) if you have earned income, meet certain income limits, and don’t have a qualifying child of your own.
- You may be entitled to a refund of federal income tax withheld from your paychecks or paid as estimated taxes.
- There may be other benefits and reasons filing a tax return should be considered.
How do I file a tax return as a dependent?
If you’re eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return, be sure to check the box that says “Someone can claim you as a dependent” on your own tax return.
In FreeTaxUSA, navigate to Personal > Taxpayer Information. Near the bottom of the page select Yes to the question, “Can a parent (or somebody else) claim you as a dependent on their tax return?”
You can only claim the credits and deductions you’re eligible for based on your income and expenses. Report the following types of income:
- Unearned income: includes taxable interest, ordinary dividends, capital gain distributions, unemployment compensation, taxable social security benefits, pensions, annuities, and distributions of unearned income from a trust.
- Earned income: includes salaries, wages, tips, professional fees, and taxable scholarship and fellowship grants.
If you’re still unsure whether you need to file a return, the IRS has a helpful interactive tool that can help you decide: Do I need to file a tax return? | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)
Check if I need to file a tax return: For current year dependent filing requirements, please see “Table 2” at IRS Publication 501 (irs.gov)
Related articles about filing requirements:
Do I need to file a tax return?
