Dependents

[Jlee73]

Does it matter which child I claim as a dependent? My teenage daughter has a part time job. She only made $8000, but there is a $2000 difference in my return depending on which child I claim. I get more back if I claim my younger son. That’s a huge difference.

[TurboTaxLise]

You claim both your children as dependents, as they both live with you. Your daughter earning an income will affect your tax return no matter what. Her income is added to the total family income, which is why you see a difference in your refund.

As for the eligible dependent credit, review the link provided below for more detailed information:

• Can I claim the eligible dependant credit for more than one child?

[Jlee73]

Thanks for your response, but it’s confusing and contradicts the link you added below. I know I am to list both children as dependents,  but I can only claim one child no matter how many I have. If I claim my daughter, her income effects me. If I claim my son, my daughter’s income does not impact my return.  

[TurboTaxKim · Accepted solution]

To clarify,

• You need to enter both children as dependants. 
• You can only claim one child for the Eligible Dependant Amount (EDA) if you were a single parent at some point during the year.
• As any income earned by the child affects the amount you are claiming for the EDA, it is advisable to claim the child with lower income (or none).
• The only credit or benefit affected by the child's income is the Eligible Dependant Amount itself. This will have an effect on the bottom line of your tax return only, and that is why choosing to claim your younger son is recommended.