Ask an Accountant

A free tool by

Question
My parent claims me as a dependent and already filed, can I reverse that with the IRS and file on my own?
AI accountant’s answer:

Unfortunately, no. The only way for you to claim yourself this year is if your parents amend their return and remove you as a dependent first. If you try to file now, your return will likely be rejected.

You can file a tax return as dependent, but you won’t be able to take advantage of many of the credits available to regular filers, and your standard deduction is limited to the greater of $1,100 or your earned income plus $350. So if you had W-2 income of $4,000, your standard deduction would be $4,350 (with a max of $12,550).

he only real reason to file as a dependent in most cases is to reclaim W-2 withholding or pay self-employment taxes.

No answer given yet!

Answer

Unfortunately, no. The only way for you to claim yourself this year is if your parents amend their return and remove you as a dependent first. If you try to file now, your return will likely be rejected.

You can file a tax return as dependent, but you won’t be able to take advantage of many of the credits available to regular filers, and your standard deduction is limited to the greater of $1,100 or your earned income plus $350. So if you had W-2 income of $4,000, your standard deduction would be $4,350 (with a max of $12,550).

he only real reason to file as a dependent in most cases is to reclaim W-2 withholding or pay self-employment taxes.

No answer given yet!

Keeper Staff

Keeper is a delightfully smart tax filing software that's especially useful for people with 1099 contracting and freelance income. Our blog breaks down IRS guidance with real-world examples and analysis by tax professionals — empowering taxpayers to save money and take control of their finances.

Followup question? Ask away.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Got a different question? Ask our accountants.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Estimate tax saving

Track and claim every eligible deduction with Keeper

Keeper is the top-rated all-in-one business expense tracker, tax filing service, and personal accountant.