Chattanooga, TN asked in Child Support for Tennessee

Q: If I have 4 kids and I can’t claim any of them on my taxes because the Mother won’t let me, but I pay child support.

Will I owe the IRS if I change my dependents from 0?

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: The fact that you pay child support does not entitle you to claim them on your taxes. If your parenting plan or other court order doesn't specify that you can claim them, then the parent who spends the majority of time with them gets to claim them. If your W-2 had them listed, then you will likely owe money on your taxes. You should consult a tax professional.

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