Q: I haven't lived with family in a year this month. Can they claim me on their taxes?
I'm 17, I was removed because of a pretty nasty CPS case and a lot of domestic abuse cases, and some felony cases on her party played a part into this. I haven't lived there since early 2024. My mom was receiving child support in this time, however not supporting me. No paying for schooling (i'm online schooling i paid for it myself), no insurance, very little contact-except to blame her wrongdoings onto me. In all of 2024 she gave one payment of 100 USD to the people whom had temporary guardianship over me, and approximately 30USD to me through the drive through of my work-cash. January 2025 child support was ceased because i came in contact with my biological father to make sure he was updated on the situation. Can she claim me on her taxes? I was paying more than 50% of my expenses so i'm assuming not. However, because I'm a minor can i claim the tax benefits she would get on my own taxes? Additionally, is there anything I can do to get reimbursed for necessary expenses by her?
A:
Under IRS rules, a parent or guardian can claim you as a dependent under the following conditions:
Residency Requirement: The child must have lived with the parent for more than half of the tax year.
Support Requirement: The parent must have provided more than half of the child’s financial support during the year.
Qualifying Child Requirement: You must meet the “qualifying child” conditions, which include being under 17 at the end of the tax year and not providing more than half of your support.
Based on your description:
Residency: You haven't lived with your mother since early 2024.
Support: You paid more than 50% of your expenses.
Financial Contribution: Your mother provided minimal financial support in 2024.
Given these details, it does not appear that your mother meets the IRS requirements to claim you as a dependent for 2024.
Since you mentioned that your mother received child support but did not support you financially, you might have some legal options to seek reimbursement.
You can petition the family law court for reimbursement of necessary expenses. Evidence such as receipts, online schooling payments, and other documented expenses will be necessary. This may, however, depend on the status of your guardianship arrangement.
Speaking with a family law attorney can help you understand your rights and possible avenues for seeking compensation or reimbursement based on your specific circumstances.
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