For Caregivers
Question: I am a caregiver for my aging parent, who lives in my home. May I file as head of household?
Answer:
You may file as head of household only if you meet the following requirements:
- You are unmarried or “considered unmarried” on the last day of the year.
- You may claim a dependency exemption for your parent.
- You paid more than half the cost of keeping up a home for your parent for the tax year. Your dependent parent does not have to live with you. See "Special rule for parent" in Chapter 2 of Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals under "Qualifying Person."
See Table 3-1 in Chapter 3 of Publication 17, "Overview of the Rules for Claiming an Exemption for a Dependent," for additional requirements. See Table 2-1 in Chapter 2 of Publication 17, "Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You to File as Head of Household?." See also Publication 501 Exemptions, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information.
Category: IRS Procedures
Subcategory: For Caregivers
