Can I claim a significant other as a dependent?

The short answer: You can claim a “qualifying child” or “qualifying relative” if they meet specific requirements related to residence, relationship to you, age, financial support provided and income.

Claiming dependents can also make you eligible for other tax benefits like the New Other Dependent Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

You may be able to take New Other Dependent Credit worth $500 if:

• You are providing support for a non-child dependent like another family member, boyfriend, girlfriend, domestic partner, or friend. You can also claim this credit for your kids 17 and older since you cannot claim the Child Tax Credit once they turn 17.
• They are a member of your household the entire year if they are a non-relative (relatives don’t need to live with you).
• The relationship between you and the dependent girlfriend/boyfriend does not violate the law, for example, you cannot still be married to someone else. (Also, check regarding your individual state law, as some states do not allow you to claim a boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent even if your relationship doesn’t violate the law).
• You meet all the other criteria for “qualifying relatives” (gross income and support).