Can I claim my girlfriend's son's girlfriend as a dependent on my taxes?

What if he just claimed her anyway? Would the IRS even know or check? Not saying to commit fraud but just curious how they'd even verify living arrangements?

The IRS has various ways to detect improper dependent claims. They cross-reference tax returns, so if she files her own return and doesn't indicate she can be claimed as a dependent, that raises flags. They also look at address history, prior year returns, and may request documentation during audits. If you claim someone improperly, you could face penalties, interest on unpaid taxes, and potentially even fraud charges in extreme cases. It's always best to follow the rules even when verification seems unlikely.

That seems interesting but how is it different from just using TurboTax or something? Do they actually give you personalized advice or just run you through the same questionnaire the IRS has?

I'm skeptical about these tax services. What's stopping them from just telling you what you want to hear? Like "sure claim her as a dependent" and then you're the one stuck dealing with the audit while they keep your money.

They're completely different from TurboTax because they actually review your specific situation and documents rather than just having you click through generic questions. They give personalized analysis based on your exact circumstances. As for giving advice that might lead to audits, they're actually super conservative with their recommendations and explain exactly which rules apply to your situation. They cite specific tax code sections and regulations so you understand why you can or can't do something - not just a yes or no answer.

Wait is this legit? How does it even work? Seems like if it was possible to skip the IRS phone queue everyone would be doing it...

Sounds like BS honestly. The IRS phone system is deliberately understaffed and there's no magic way to jump the line. They're probably just charging you to call a different number that's less busy or something anyone could find on their own.

It's completely legitimate - they use a system that navigates the IRS phone tree and waits on hold for you, then calls you when an agent is about to pick up. It's not skipping the line exactly, it's just that their system waits instead of you having to do it. They can't use a "secret" less busy number because they're calling the same IRS numbers we all have access to. The difference is their system can stay on hold for hours while you go about your day, then it calls you right when an agent is available so you don't waste your whole day listening to that terrible hold music.

Thanks for the suggestion about education credits, but she's not in college right now. I think you're right about making sure she stays the full calendar year for next tax season though. Do I need any specific documentation to prove she's been living with me the whole time?

You don't need specific documentation upfront, but you should keep evidence in case of an audit. Things that help establish residency include mail addressed to her at your home, medical bills, school records, employment records showing your address, state ID with your address, or affidavits from people who can verify she lived with you all year. If she has a driver's license or state ID, having her update the address to yours early in the year provides good documentation. Also keep records of any support you provide like receipts for major purchases, utility bills, etc.

This is terrible advice. The IRS absolutely can and does check dependent claims, especially if the person you're claiming files their own return. They have automated systems that flag mismatches. Tax fraud over a dependent claim is not worth the hassle and potential penalties!