Many people wonder if they can claim their girlfriend or boyfriend as a dependent on their taxes. The IRS has specific rules that define whether you can include your partner on your federal tax return. To qualify, your partner must meet several criteria, including income limits and support requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
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Can you claim a partner as a dependent?
Yes, you can potentially claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent, but they must meet the IRS’s criteria for a “qualifying relative.” The term “relative” in this context is broad and may include individuals who aren’t related to you by blood. To claim a partner, they must satisfy four main tests: residency, income, support, and status.
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Is your partner an official resident?
To be claimed as a dependent, your partner must have lived with you for the entire calendar year. Your home should be their official residence for the entire year, though temporary absences (like vacations or medical treatment) are allowed. However, if your cohabitation violates local laws, such as in states where unmarried couples can’t live together legally, you cannot claim that person as a dependent.
How much does your partner earn?
Income limits are a key factor in determining if your partner can be claimed as a dependent. Gross income, which includes all taxable income such as wages or interest, must not exceed a certain threshold. For the tax year 2024, the limit is $5,050. If your partner’s income surpasses this amount, they cannot be claimed as a dependent.
How much support do you provide for your partner?
You must pay more than half of your partner’s living expenses to qualify for claiming them as a dependent. This includes all support provided by you, any other individuals, and the partner’s own income. For example, if your partner uses their savings to cover their expenses, and the total amount they contribute exceeds half of their living costs, they cannot be considered your dependent.
Can someone else claim your partner?
Only one person can claim a specific individual as a dependent in a given year. If your partner is already claimed by someone else, you cannot claim them as a dependent. Additionally, you cannot claim a married person as a dependent if they file jointly with their spouse.
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Get help with your taxes
The IRS offers online resources to help you determine if your partner qualifies as a dependent. If you’re filing with TurboTax, it can simplify the process by asking you questions about your living situation to ensure that you understand the rules for claiming dependents. With TurboTax Live Full Service, experts will handle your taxes from start to finish, or you can get advice as you do your taxes with TurboTax Live Assisted.
If you prefer to file your own taxes, TurboTax will guide you through every step to ensure accuracy and maximize your refund. Get started now and file with confidence!
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