As you are likely aware if you have a child, there is a credit which may be claimed when filing your income tax. For 2014 tax returns, the deduction from income was $3,950.00.
Federal Law states, in part, that in the case of parents residing separately, the parent with whom the child lives for the majorty of time is the one entitled to claim the child on their taxes to receive this credit. If the child spends an equal amount of time with each parent (a 50/50 parenting time schedule), then the parent with the highest adjusted gross income is the correct parent to receive the credit.
IMPORTANTLY, if the tax credit is requested by a non-majority timesharing parent, the Court willnormallyorder that parent may claim the child for tax purposes in alternating years so long as he or she is current on child support payments.
If you are a non-majority timesharing parent who is entitled to claim your child for a tax exemption, it is best to ensure the majority timesharing parent completes FORM 8332, which informs the IRSof your entitlement, and attaches such form to his or her tax return. Ifthe other parent is not cooperating, you can provide a copy of your Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage (together with your Marital Settlement Agreement, if applicable) and the IRS will review the same to determine your rights.
SeeThe Dependency Exemption for Minor Children: When Following the Rules Pays Off, The Florida Bar Journal, January 2015.
