do I have to claim a child as a dependent to qualify as head of household?

Tax_questionQ) do I have to claim a child as a dependent to qualify as head of household?

A) According to the IRS: In certain circumstances, you do not have to claim the child as a dependent to qualify for head of household filing status; for example, a custodial parent may be able to claim head of household filing status even

No, you do not have to claim a child as a dependent to qualify as head of household. To qualify for head of household filing status, you must meet all of the following requirements:

  • You must be single or considered unmarried at the end of the tax year.
  • You must have paid more than half the cost of keeping up a home for the entire year.
  • You must have lived in the home for more than half the year.
  • You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.

If you meet all of these requirements, you can file your tax return as head of household, which will give you a larger standard deduction and lower tax rates than if you filed as single.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

  • If you are a custodial parent, you may be able to file as head of household even if you do not claim your child as a dependent.
  • If you are married filing separately, you may be able to file as head of household if your spouse meets all of the requirements for head of household filing status.

If you are unsure whether you qualify for head of household filing status, you should consult with a tax professional.

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