Is it tax season already?
While start dates could vary year to year, what doesn’t change is you need to file your taxes. You could do this electronically, mail it, or hire a tax preparer to file for you.
It’s essential you don’t miss the deadline, but there are cases when the IRS provides an extension, so be sure to keep yourself updated on that. Now, part of filing taxes involves knowing which benefits you’re entitled to.
For example, if you’re taking care of a disabled child or adult, you could claim them as a disabled dependent on your return. That said, let’s discuss the qualifications for disabled dependents under the criteria set by the IRS.
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If Your Disabled Dependent Is a Child
The disabled child tax credit applies to any person with a disability, diagnosed by a doctor, under 19 years old. Note that the diagnosis must show that the child’s disability prevents them from engaging in “substantial and gainful activity.”
Now, if you have an adult child with a disability, you can still claim them as a dependent. To claim disabled adults on your returns, their disability, according to IRS Publication 17, should be total and permanent.
There are additional requirements to remember. First, the dependent should be your descendant. That includes stepchildren, foster children, siblings, step-siblings, and descendants of a sibling.
The dependent should also have stayed with you in the same residence for at least half the year. You must also prove that you provide over half your child or relative’s support.
Some Exceptions and Notes to Keep In Mind
One requirement for claiming disabled adults on your returns involves their income. It shouldn’t exceed the threshold set by the IRS.
The only exception is if they are working at a sheltered workshop, a school that provides exceptional training for individuals with a disability. Don’t forget that this school must be government-run or operated by a tax-exempt group.
Once you’re sure your child or relative meets all the requirements, you can file with Form 1040A or Form 1040. Using any of these disability tax forms, be sure you don’t forget to indicate the dependent’s name, Social Security number, and their relationship to you.
What About Disabled Spouses?
It’s no secret that taxpayers with a disabled spouse incur extra expenses, such as home care costs and expensive medical bills. The good news is the IRS also provides tax breaks, including credits and deductions, to individuals whose spouse has a disability.
If your spouse is legally blind, itemizing could increase your deductions. You only need to ensure your expenses are higher than the limit set by the IRS for your adjusted gross income.
Also, if you file jointly and your spouse is retired because of total disability, you may qualify for the Credit for the Disabled. You may also claim the child and dependent care credit if you hire a caretaker.
Should there be problems with your disability claims, it helps to consult an expert. You may click for more to see what legal help is available to you.
Do You Need More Tax Tips and Advice?
Now that you know more about claiming a disabled dependent on your returns, do you need more information on preparing and filing taxes?
If yes, be sure to check our other posts. We also have tons of interesting content on various topics, so be sure to browse the site.