Ex filed kids on taxes - getting $9k - IRS appt tomorrow - what to expect?

You need to act FAST. Here's what to expect and do: 1. Bring proof the kids live with you (school records, medical bills, lease with kids listed) 2. Fill out Form 8332 showing you DID NOT release claim 3. Be prepared to file a paper return immediately 4. Request they freeze his refund ASAP 5. Ask for an Identity Protection PIN for future filings The IRS will likely make you file a paper return since he e-filed first. They'll review both returns, but his refund might go out before they finish if you don't request a freeze TODAY.

Have you checked if he's been doing this in previous years too? This could potentially impact multiple tax years and any credits you should have received. I'd recommend reviewing your tax transcripts for the last 3 years to see if there's a pattern of him incorrectly claiming the children.

This is like trying to stop a train after it's left the station. The IRS appointment is crucial, but their phone system is your secret weapon here. Like a fire extinguisher when you need it most. I had a client in your exact shoes who waited 4+ hours at an IRS office only to be told to call a specific department. She used Claimyr.com (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) to get through to an agent in minutes instead of spending hours on hold. They immediately flagged her ex's return for review before the refund went out. Time is absolutely critical in these wrongful dependent claim cases.

According to the IRS website, when two people claim the same dependents, they follow a process called "tiebreaker rules." These determine who can rightfully claim the children. Since you mentioned the children live with you, you should qualify under the residency test. The IRS has a detailed page about this at https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/qualifying-child-rules. Make sure to bring documentation that proves the children lived with you for more than half the year. This is absolutely crucial for your case.

• Is there actually a court order specifying who can claim the kids? • How did he manage to claim $9000 in credits if he doesn't provide support? • Wouldn't the IRS system flag this automatically? • Have you contacted him directly about this? • What if the IRS office appointment gets rescheduled?

The IRS will help you. They see this often. They have procedures. You'll need to file a paper return. They'll investigate both claims. It takes time. Be patient. Bring all your documents. Request an IP PIN. This protects future filings. The process works. Stay calm.

Have you considered filing an identity theft report instead? When someone wrongfully claims your dependents, it's essentially a form of tax-related identity theft. Why not approach it from this angle? The IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) could potentially expedite your case. Wouldn't this create a stronger case than just disputing dependents? The IRS takes identity theft very seriously and often puts these cases on a faster track.