From:  Anonymous
Date:  Thu, 3 Jan 2002

My boyfriend claimed my son the same year I did. Now I do not know where to go for help or what I need to do.

Answer

Date:  January 2002

Hello,

There is a good chance the IRS will discover this error by matching the your son's social security number on your return and your boyfriend's. You need to resolve the conflict of who is entitled to the exemption. Usually it's the custodial parent. If you or your boyfriend files an amended return without the exemption, you will eliminate the issue. Go to a tax return preparer for help.

It sounds like you might have a more serious problem than the exemption. It may be you are involved in an abusive relationship. Please get some counseling.

Good luck!
Mike Gray

For answers to new questions, subscribe to our newsletter, Michael Gray, CPA's Tax & Business Insight by filling out the form below.

IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: As required by U.S. Treasury Regulations, you are hereby advised that any written tax advice contained on this website was not written or intended to be used (and cannot be used) by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.