Is this legal?

United States
November 10, 2009 2:52pm CST
My parents are claiming me a dependent this coming year's taxes even though I move out in May. Is that legal? And shouldn't they feel the least bit bad about screwing me out of a years worth of financial aid? I'm a little mad right now...
1 person likes this
2 responses
xfahctor
@xfahctor (14118)
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
10 Nov 09
In order for them to be able to claim you, you must have lived in their home for at least 6 months durring the year they are filing for...ie: if you lived in their home from jan 1st of 2009 until july 1st 2009, they can claim you.
MissKatPegasus
@MissKatPegasus (155)
• United States
11 Nov 09
I moved out in the end of may. I don't want to screw up their taxes and get them in trouble but I really can't afford to pay for school on top of everything else.
musicman6
@musicman6 (2406)
• United States
10 Nov 09
Yes they are eligible to carry you as a dependent if you lived with them until May! And I guess it depends on who put out the most money out of their pocket to pay for you living at home, and going to school! Most students try to claim themselves and only get a small tax credit for it, but if they would let the parents claim the tax credit , they get a larger break, thus more money for both of you!
MissKatPegasus
@MissKatPegasus (155)
• United States
11 Nov 09
I'm not living at home and I pay for all my education while working full time. They're claiming me even though I moved out months ago. I can't get financial aid now and it's going to kill me.