Question

Claiming a dependent alternating years with 3rd stimulus

Forum|Forum|4 years ago
January 28, 2022
1 reply
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My son was claimed as a dependent on my 2019 taxes. My ex husband ended up claiming my son on the 2020 taxes, though he wasn't supposed to. Rather than fight it, I let it go, and we now have in writing that we alternate every year, meaning I claim him for the 2021 taxes, filing now.

When it asked about the 3rd stimulus payment, it was saying that I should have received $2800, which I can only assume was for me and for my son (I file head of household and this year I'm claiming my son). From all I'm reading online, the 3rd stimulus payment is based off of the 2020 tax year. So I really am NOT entitled to that $1400 Turbo Tax is saying I missed out on. Is there any way I can decline that payment? Or am I incorrect in thinking that I'm not entitled to that payment? I planned on putting that $1400 from my tax return into a savings that I can pay it back once they realize their mistake, but if it's NOT their mistake and I really am entitled to that stimulus for my son, then I'll just put it towards my debt right away.

Any insight into this would be extremely appreciated! I don't like owing the government money. In the end, I'd rather not get it to avoid any hassle, but I'm not seeing the option to not get it back.

rjs

Employee

You are entitled to the additional $1,400 credit on your 2021 tax return. You will not have to pay it back. It's not a mistake. This is how the system works.