IRS rejected my tax return: Dad fraudulently claimed mom and brother as dependents. How to handle?
My dad filed taxes claiming my mom and brother as dependents, but I'm actually the one supporting them. Now my tax return got rejected. I think this might be fraud. My dad doesn't even live with us anymore and has some legal issues going on. He filed in a different state than where we live. I'm not sure what to do about this situation. Has anyone dealt with something similar? Any advice on how to handle this?
35 comments


Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve dad's fraudulent tax filing issue, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khzlRYw63_k
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Adrian Connor
An important step to consider is contacting the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit. If your father filed taxes without your mom’s knowledge, she could be a victim of tax-related identity theft. Also, try reaching out to Claimyr, as mentioned earlier, to get assistance with speaking directly to the IRS. While paying $20 to use Claimyr’s service might seem steep, it could expedite the process rather than waiting for hours on hold. However, also weigh this against free methods if cost is a concern. Importantly, gather all evidence such as financial records that prove you are the primary supporter of your mom and brother. You might also want to seek advice from a certified tax preparer or accountant who may offer guidance on how to legally and efficiently handle dependents on your tax filing. Lastly, going through a legal process to establish guardianship or financial responsibility might help clarify the situation with the IRS. Good luck, and I hope everything works out for you and your family!
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Alina Rosenthal
I found a method to get someone on the phone at the IRS. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c
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Finnegan Gunn
•$20 just to talk to someone? That's ridiculous. The system is so broken.
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Miguel Harvey
•Is this legit? Sounds too good to be true.
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Alina Rosenthal
•I was skeptical at first too, but it really did work for me. Saved me hours of frustration.
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Ashley Simian
•It might seem like a lot, but sometimes paying for convenience can save you a lot of time and headache.
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Max Reyes
Plot twist: what if your dad is actually an undercover agent and this is all part of some elaborate sting operation? 🕵️♂️ (I watch too much TV, don't mind me
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Mikayla Davison
•Haha, wouldn't that be wild? But in all seriousness, hope you find a way to resolve this.
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Kristian Bishop
This is why the tax system is so messed up. It's way too easy for people to commit fraud and screw over their own family members. The whole system needs an overhaul. 🤬
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Kaitlyn Otto
•Agreed! There should be more stringent checks to prevent these kinds of issues.
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Melody Miles
Oof, that's a tough situation. Sounds like your dad is trying to pull a fast one on the IRS. You should definitely report this to them. They take tax fraud pretty seriously.
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Nathaniel Mikhaylov
I had a similar issue with my ex. You need to file a paper return and include a letter explaining the situation. The IRS will investigate and sort it out. It might take a while tho, so be patient.
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Jace Caspullo
•How long did it take for your situation to get resolved?
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Nathaniel Mikhaylov
•It took about 6 months for me. But every case is different. Just make sure you have all your documentation ready!
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Eva St. Cyr
•Also, make sure to keep a copy of everything you submit in case you need to reference it later.
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Felix Grigori
I'm in the same boat, my dude. My ex tried to claim our kids even tho they live with me full-time. It's a nightmare. Hang in there!
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Jace Caspullo
•That sucks. How are you handling it?
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Felix Grigori
•I got a tax advocate to help me out. It's taking forever, but at least I know someone's fighting for me.
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Felicity Bud
•Keep pushing through. A tax advocate can make a world of difference.
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Ellie Kim
Dude, your dad sounds like a real piece of work. Not only is he committing tax fraud, but he's also on the run? That's some next-level drama right there. 🍿
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Jace Caspullo
•Yeah, it's a mess. I just want to protect my mom and brother.
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Fiona Sand
•This is like a plot for a true crime podcast lol. But seriously, hope you get it sorted out OP.
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Mohammad Khaled
•Family issues can get really complicated. Stay strong and focused on what you need to do.
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Axel Far
You might want to consult with a tax attorney. They can guide you through the process and help you build a case against your dad. It's worth the investment to protect yourself.
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Jace Caspullo
•That's a good idea, but I'm worried about the cost. Any idea how much a tax attorney might charge for something like this?
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Jasmine Hernandez
•Tax attorneys can be pricey, but some offer free consultations. You could also try contacting your local legal aid society for low-cost options.
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Luis Johnson
•And don't forget there are online platforms offering legal advice at a fraction of the price.
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Oliver Cheng
Here's what you need to do: 1. File your taxes on paper, claiming your mom and brother as dependents 2. Include a detailed letter explaining the situation 3. Gather evidence that you're supporting them (bills, bank statements, etc.) 4. Report your dad's fraudulent filing to the IRS 5. Be prepared for a long process - the IRS is notoriously slow 6. Consider getting a tax advocate to help you navigate this Remember, the burden of proof is on you to show that you're entitled to claim them as dependents. Good luck!
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Jace Caspullo
•Thank you so much for this detailed advice! I'll definitely follow these steps.
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Taylor To
•This is solid advice. I'd add that OP should also inform their mom about what's happening. She might need to file an identity theft report.
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Ella Cofer
•Also, keep a log of all your communications with the IRS and any other relevant authorities.
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Kevin Bell
Have you tried turning it off and on again? 🤣 jk jk. but srsly, the IRS website is about as useful as a chocolate teapot sometimes. hope you get this sorted!
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Savannah Glover
•True that! Sometimes it feels like a miracle when the site works as expected.
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Misterclamation Skyblue
This is such a frustrating situation, and I'm sorry you're dealing with family drama on top of tax issues. Based on what others have shared, filing a paper return with detailed documentation seems like your best bet. Make sure to keep copies of everything - utility bills, grocery receipts, medical expenses, anything that shows you're the one actually supporting your mom and brother. The IRS will eventually sort it out, but it's going to take time and patience. Also consider reaching out to the Taxpayer Advocate Service - they're free and can help navigate complex situations like this. Stay strong and don't let your dad's actions discourage you from doing the right thing for your family.
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