If you are divorced and there is a dependent child living at home, you may be thinking about who gets to claim head of household. If you are low-income and you are now considered single, this could lead to a higher tax refund, and you could get back money that will benefit you in many ways. However, if you want to claim head of household, there are some requirements to be met:
- Husband didn’t live in the home for the last 6 months
- You won’t be filing a joint return this year
- Paid over half the cost of maintaining your home that year
- Child lived in home over half the year
- Child is considered a “qualifying child”
- You are considered the custodial parent
Determining the Custodial Parent
You may wonder if you are classified as the custodial parent in your parenting situation. To be classified as such in the eyes of the IRS, your child must have lived with you more nights during the tax year than with your ex. However, if you and your spouse have a joint custody situation and the child spends equal amounts of time with you, then they will start to look at the parent who has the highest adjusted gross income. In almost every situation, a child is living with someone a greater amount each year, even if it is just by a bit.
There are many things to think about when you have a child and you are wondering how to handle your taxes. The end of tax season is coming quickly, and so this gives you a lot to think about, as well as who is going to claim the children as dependents for their return. Luckily, we can help you make determinations like the custodial parent and more when you speak to us. Call us today for the help you deserve.
