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Can I claim my roommate for a dependent when I file taxes this year? She hasn’t worked and can’t work this yea?

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  1. David on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    It would be hard to prove, but if they meet all the requirements, then yes.

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  2. tro on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    a qualifying relative(altho not r’qrd to be related) is one who lives in your household the ENTIRE year, you provide more than 50% of their support, they did not earn $ 3700 and they cannot be claimed on the tax return of anyone else

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  3. card-ron on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    Generally you can only claim your roommate as a dependent if ALL of the following are true: 1) She lived with you all year, 2) Her income for the entire year is less than $ 3,700, 3) You paid more than half of her expenses for the year, 4) She cannot be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return, and 5) Your living situation does not violate the laws where you live.

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  4. Huntsman on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    Expect to get audited by the IRS for doing this.
    And it’s not nice to get their letter. It can turn your world upsidedown

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  5. rtfm on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    If she meets all the requirements: Has lived with you for the ENTIRE year (all 365 days), earned less than $ 3700 for the entire year, is a US citizen, cannot be claimed as a dependent by any other taxpayer, you pay more than half her support, and your living together does not violate any local laws.

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  6. the tax lady on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    You *must* be able to prove she:

    1. Lived with you all year.
    2. You paid for more than half of her total support.
    3. Her taxable income, including unemployment, was LESS than $ 3700.

    4. Living together is legal where you are.
    5. She is a US citizen or resident of US, Canada or Mexico.
    6. She can’t be claimed by someone else.

    If yes, you get the $ 3700 exemption only. No HOH and certainly no EIC.

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  7. the kid on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    If she made less than $ 3650 and otherwise qualifies as yoru dependent, sure. She must live with you all year and you must pay more than 50% of her support. Chekc IRS publication 501.

    Your bets bet is to get a new roommate. The money you pay to support her is much more than you would ever get back you coudl even claim her.

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  8. Nancy Kay on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    No, you are not related and you are not obligated for her care, such as a parent or guardian, so no.

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  9. acmeraven on Aug 19, 2011 reply

    You need to go to IRS.GOV and download or order a free Pub 17 and go over the flow charts with your room mate to see if the criteria set down by the IRS is met.

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