Navigating Child Dependency Claims for Stimulus Checks

When it comes to claiming your children on a parent's tax return, disputes can arise, especially during difficult times such as divorce or the death of a parent. This is particularly relevant with the ongoing issue of stimulus checks, as one parent may have claimed your children on their tax return. In this article, we will explore what happens if your child's other parent initially claimed them on their taxes and how you can ensure you receive future stimulus payments.

Understanding the Problem

The distribution of stimulus checks is tied to social security numbers and tax return information. If a parent used your child's social security number on their taxes and qualifies for the stimulus check based on their income, the check will go to them rather than you. This can lead to a situation where you are not receiving the financial assistance you are entitled to.

The Official Process

If you believe your child was fraudulently claimed by another parent, there are steps you can take, but the process can be lengthy and complicated. Here’s what you need to know:

What to Do

1. Contact the IRS: If you believe a parent has claimed your child fraudulently, you should report it to the IRS. Contact the IRS at 800-829-1040. Be prepared to answer detailed questions and provide supporting documentation like marriage certificates, divorce papers, and court statements indicating that your child is now your dependent.

2. Expect a Long Wait: The IRS process can be lengthy, often involving extensive documentation and lengthy wait times. You may need to wait up to an hour and a half on hold, and it could easily take 6 months to resolve the issue.

What You Can Expect

1. No Immediate Solution: If you are not the original claimant, you may not receive the stimulus check immediately. However, if the circumstances are valid, you may be entitled to the future payments.

2. Claim on Next Year’s Tax Return: If you cannot convince the IRS, you can claim the missed payment on your next year’s tax return (2020). This process is not guaranteed, but it is an option.

What Happens When a Parent Dies?

When a parent who initially received the stimulus check due to child dependency dies, it’s common to question what happens to the check. Here’s what you should know:

If the deceased parent died before receiving the stimulus check, the check should not be cashed and instead should be returned to the IRS. This is to ensure that the correct party receives the payment in the future.

Conclusion and Advice

It’s understandable to feel angry or concerned about financial matters, especially after a significant life event like the death of a parent. However, it’s important to approach the situation calmly and rationally. If you need help, you can consult with a tax preparer who can guide you through the process.

For more information, you can visit the official IRS website for the 'Get My Payment' tool.