Declares who can claim a dependent when multiple people share support.

Key Features:

• Determines eligibility for claiming a dependent
• Used when no single supporter provides >50% of support
• Requires agreement among all contributors
• Must be attached to the tax return of the claiming taxpayer

• Families sharing support of elderly parents
• Relatives collectively supporting a child
• Groups providing joint support for a dependent
• Taxpayers who provide significant (but not majority) support

• Prevents multiple taxpayers claiming the same dependent
• Ensures IRS compliance for shared support situations
• Allows proper allocation of tax benefits
• Avoids audits or rejected returns

Steps to properly file:

• All supporters must agree on who claims the dependent
• Claimant must attach Form 2120 to their return
• Other supporters must file Form 2120 but not claim the dependent
• Keep detailed records of support contributions

• Communication among supporters is key
• Keep documentation of support amounts (receipts, bills paid)
• Consider rotating the dependent claim year-to-year if applicable
• Ensure the chosen claimant has the highest tax benefit

• Form 1040 (Individual Income Tax Return)
• Publication 501 (Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information)
• Form 2441 (Child and Dependent Care Expenses)