How do I list my stepdaughter? My husband pays child support.

April 22, 2015 by Dave Du Val, EA
young toddler girl in a swing

Hey Dave,

What do I do with a stepdaughter who doesn't live with us?  She is in college, but even when she is not at college she lives with her mom. How do I list that? My husband pays child support.  I don't remember what we did last year.

Monica

 

Monica,

It would appear, based on your question, that your stepdaughter's mom would be considered your stepdaughter’s custodial parent. Therefore, unless she has signed over the dependency exemption to your husband via Form 8332, your stepdaughter is not your dependent, and you would not be able to claim credits or deductions on her behalf. You will find more information on the "Qualifying Child" rules here, along with links to other helpful information.

Deductibly Yours,

Dave

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Dave Du Val, EA

Dave Du Val, EA
Chief Compliance Officer for TRI Holdco

 
Dave Du Val, EA, is Chief Compliance Officer for TRI Holdco. Inc., the parent company of TaxAudit, and Centenal Tax Group. A nationally recognized speaker and educator, Dave is well known for his high energy and dynamic presentation style. He is a frequent and popular guest speaker for the California Society of Tax Consultants, the California Society of Enrolled Agents and the National Association of Tax Professionals. Dave frequently contributes tax tips and information to news publications, including US News and World Report, USA Today, and CPA Practice Advisor. Dave is an Enrolled Agent who has prepared thousands of returns during his career and has trained and mentored hundreds of tax professionals. He is a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals, the National Association of Enrolled Agents and the California Society of Enrolled Agents. Dave also holds a Master of Arts in Education and has been educating people since 1972. 
 

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