If you found out that you claimed a dependent incorrectly on an IRS accepted tax return, you will need to file a tax amendment or form 1040-X and remove the dependent from your tax return. At any time, contact us here at eFile.com or call the IRS support line at 1-800-829-1040 and inform them of the situation.

What do I do if someone fraudulently claimed me as a dependent?

If you know who improperly claimed you or your dependent, you can ask them to file an amended return to fix the problem. This process takes time, though. You’ll still likely need to paper file your tax return to get it in on time. In other cases, you may not know who incorrectly claimed you or your dependent.

Does the IRS investigate dependents?

How the IRS Handles Dependent Audits. The IRS will first attempt to determine which taxpayer isn’t entitled to claim the dependent. It will automatically audit the other tax return that claimed the same dependent if the first taxpayer successfully defends their tax return.

What kind of proof does the IRS need for dependents?

The dependent’s birth certificate, and if needed, the birth and marriage certificates of any individuals, including yourself, that prove the dependent is related to you. For an adopted dependent, send an adoption decree or proof the child was lawfully placed with you or someone related to you for legal adoption.

What happens if you claim a dependent on your tax return?

You may have tried to file your tax return and got an e-file rejection message. Something like: “A dependent on your return has already been claimed (or claimed themselves) on another return.” Assuming you entered your dependent’s information correctly, it looks like someone else claimed your dependent.

What to do if you are claimed as a dependent on someone else?

Find out what you should do if you find out that you (or your legal dependent) was claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return. Being claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return or claiming a dependent on your tax return can have a direct impact on the amount of your tax refund or the amount you owe .

What happens if you are fraudulently claimed as a dependent?

You might be claimed for fraudulent reasons or in an honest mistake. Beverly Bird — a paralegal with over two decades of experience — has been the tax expert for The Balance since 2015, crafting digestible personal finance, legal, and tax content for readers. Bird served as a paralegal on areas of tax law, bankruptcy, and family law.

Can a dependent be audited by the IRS?

An audit can result if neither you nor the other taxpayer files an amended return that removes the dependent. The IRS can’t lawfully identify the individual who attempted to claim you as a dependent because dependents aren’t considered the primary or secondary taxpayer on the tax return.