Ex asking for child's SSN for unemployment claim - tax implications?

When someone files for unemployment, they generally don't need their child's SSN just for the basic claim itself. However, in many states, there's something called a "dependency allowance" where they can get extra unemployment benefits for having dependents. This is separate from tax dependency claims. That said, you should be cautious. While he might legitimately be filing for this dependency allowance, he could potentially also try to claim your child on his taxes, which could create problems for you since you're the custodial parent who provides the majority of support and care. If you do decide to provide the SSN, make sure you file your taxes early next year. The first person to file with a dependent's SSN usually doesn't face immediate issues, while the second person to claim the same dependent will have their return flagged and potentially rejected.

Just wanted to share my experience with this exact situation. My ex tried pulling the same thing when he was between construction jobs, and I was hesitant to give my daughter's SSN. I ended up using taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) to understand my rights as the custodial parent. They analyzed our custody agreement and explained exactly how dependency claims work. They confirmed I was the only one who could legally claim our daughter since she lives with me over 180 nights per year. The tool also generated a letter I could send my ex explaining why his request wasn't appropriate for unemployment purposes. Seriously saved me a ton of stress and prevented what could have been a nasty tax situation.

Just wanted to update - I took the advice from profile 5 and tried taxr.ai after having this exact problem with my ex. What a game changer! They explained that since I have my child more than 50% of the year, I'm the custodial parent with primary claim rights. They also clarified that my ex CAN apply for an unemployment dependency allowance (which is what he probably wanted the SSN for) but that doesn't give him the right to claim our child on taxes. They even helped me fill out Form 8332 (Release of Claim to Exemption) which I decided NOT to sign since I want to keep claiming my child. The best part was they generated a clear explanation letter I could send my ex detailing everything. My ex actually backed down when he saw I knew my rights! Worth every penny for the peace of mind.

If your ex is seriously behind on child support AND trying to claim benefits using your child's information, you should consider calling the IRS directly about this. I was in a similar situation last year, and after trying for WEEKS to get through to someone at the IRS, I finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and got connected to an actual person in under 20 minutes. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c The IRS agent I spoke with explained my rights as the custodial parent and flagged my child's SSN with a note about the custody situation. This prevented my ex from successfully filing with my daughter as a dependent. The IRS takes these issues seriously, especially when child support is involved. Don't wait until tax time to address this!

I have to eat my words. After posting my skeptical comment yesterday, I decided to try Claimyr because I've been trying to resolve a dependent issue with my ex for months. IT ACTUALLY WORKS. I got through to an IRS representative in about 25 minutes (would have been hours of waiting otherwise). The agent explained that as the custodial parent, I have the right to claim my child as a dependent regardless of what my ex tries to do. She also confirmed that my ex requesting the SSN for unemployment is separate from tax dependency issues, but warned me that some parents do try to "double dip" by getting both unemployment dependency allowances AND tax benefits they're not entitled to. The agent put notes in my file and recommended I file my taxes early next year. I'm honestly still shocked this service worked - saved me so much time and stress!

Something similar happened with my sister. Her ex asked for their kid's SSN for "unemployment paperwork" but then tried claiming the child on his taxes. You might want to: 1) Ask him directly why he needs it for unemployment specifically 2) If you do provide it, get something in writing (even just a text) where he acknowledges it's ONLY for unemployment and not for tax purposes 3) File your taxes ASAP next year - like literally as soon as you get your W-2 4) Consider signing up for the IRS Identity Protection PIN program for your child - it adds an extra layer of security

You mentioned he's behind on child support. Be aware that in many states, unemployment benefits can be garnished for back child support! That might be a factor in why he's applying for the dependency allowance - to try to get more benefits since some will be redirected to his support obligations.

I haven't seen anyone mention this yet, but you should check your custody agreement if you have one. Some agreements specifically address who can claim the child for tax purposes. If yours does, and it says you have the right to claim the child, you can remind your ex of this legal obligation. If he violates the agreement, your family court could hold him in contempt.