Can I claim a child on my taxes if I am not his father but I have helped his mother financially cover the cost of his upbringing?. Thank you in advance for your attention.
Asked on 4/26/12, 2:47 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Sanford M. Martin
Sanford M. Martin, P.A.
Yes, e.g., you can claim a child, friend, or other person whose necessary living
expenses were paid by you for more than half the tax year. Both you and another
person cannot claim the person as a dependent, but it isn't required that you be
a parent in order to claim a dependent, whether the person is a child, disabled,
elderly, or unable to support himself. Read the IRS 1040 guidelines for claiming
a dependent to understand specific rules which fit your situation.
Answered on 4/26/12, 5:25 pm