What is the income cap for claiming a dependent?

February 18, 2004

Subject:  Tax question
From:  Anonymous
Date:  Wed, 28 Jan 2004

Hi. I was looking through your website it was very helpful.

What are the income requirements if someone else (not a parent) is going to claim me as a dependent? Is it based on my W-2 income? Does that person have to bring my W-2 to his or her tax return preparer?: Do I have to go to the tax return preparer with that person?

Thanks.

Answer

Date:  Mon, 02 Feb 2004

Hello,

The gross income for dependents other than student dependent children must be less than $3,050 for to qualify as a dependent for 2003. Gross income includes taxable income from all sources, not just W-2 income. Most income tax return preparers do not require having the dependent's Form W-2 to claim that person as a dependent. You do not have to be present at the interview. Your name and social security number will be reported on the tax return of the person who claims you as a dependent.

Remember that other requirements must be met in order to qualify as a dependent.

Good luck!
Mike Gray

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