TurboTax Answers Most Commonly Asked Tax Questions (1440 x 600 px)
TurboTax Answers Most Commonly Asked Tax Questions (411 x 600 px)

TurboTax Answers Most Commonly Asked Tax Questions

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  • Published Jan 26, 2024 - [Updated Jun 28, 2024]
  • 7 min read

Although the federal tax deadline is April 15, taxpayers are encouraged to file their taxes now to get their refund ASAP. Most people receive a tax refund each year, and last year, the average federal tax refund was more than 3,000. As taxpayers continue to file their taxes, we are seeing a wide range of tax questions which range from those asked routinely, “can I claim my boyfriend/girlfriend as a dependent?” to those specific to certain credits and deductions this year. To help make the filing process as easy as possible, we’ve answered the most commonly asked questions for this tax season.

Table of Contents

Who Can I Claim as a Dependent?What is the Earned Income Tax Credit and How Do I Claim it?Does Health Care Reform Still Impact My Taxes?Are Unemployment Benefits Taxable?Can I Deduct the Cost of Searching for a Job? Are Moving Expenses for My New Job Tax Deductible?What are the Tax Implications of Withdrawing Money Early from a Retirement Account to Pay Bills or Debt?I Was Impacted by a Natural Disaster in 2023. What Tax Breaks Are Available to Me?What are Qualified Education Expenses?I Started My Own Business. Can I Deduct My Home Office Expenses?What If I Still Have Questions?

Who Can I Claim as a Dependent?

Your significant other probably means many things to you—but are they also worth a deduction or credit? The question of who you can claim as a dependent has confused taxpayers for years.

The short answer: You can claim a “qualifying child” or “qualifying relative” if they meet specific requirements related to residence, relationship to you, age, financial support provided, and income. You may also be able to claim your significant other or friend as a qualifying relative in some cases. You no longer get a dependent exemption for your dependents, but being able to claim them can also make you eligible for other tax benefits.  You may be able to claim credits like the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for your qualifying child and the Other Dependent Credit (ODC) for your qualifying relative.

You may be able to take the Other Dependent Credit worth $500 if:

  • You are providing support for a non-child dependent like another family member, boyfriend, girlfriend, domestic partner, or friend. You can also claim this credit for your kids 17 and over since you cannot claim the Child Tax Credit once they turn 17 for tax year 2023.
  • They are a member of your household the entire year if they are a non-relative (relatives don’t need to live with you).
  • The relationship between you and the dependent girlfriend/boyfriend does not violate the law; for example, you cannot still be married to someone else. (Also, check regarding your individual state law, as some states do not allow you to claim a boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent even if your relationship doesn’t violate the law).
  • You meet all the other criteria for “qualifying relatives” (gross income and support).

What is the Earned Income Tax Credit and How Do I Claim it?

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a tax credit for low to middle income wage earners that has lifted millions of people out of poverty, but many people still miss it. Why do so many people miss it? Many think they don’t make enough to file their taxes, so they don’t claim it, or their income changed, but they are not aware that they can qualify. You have to file to get this valuable tax credit, which may help a family with three children who qualify receive a credit worth up to $7,430 for 2023. Families without children may qualify for a credit up to $600.

Family of five eating breakfast.

Does Health Care Reform Still Impact My Taxes?

With tax reform enacted at the end of 2017, there have been questions around the requirements to have health care coverage. Under tax reform, effective as of tax year 2019, the tax penalty for not having health insurance is eliminated. Taxpayers will no longer be required to pay a tax penalty for not having health insurance. 

If you receive health insurance coverage in a qualified health insurance plan purchased from Healthcare.gov or through a State Marketplace, you may have received an Advanced Premium Tax Credit or subsidy to help you pay for your 2023 health insurance, which was based on your projection of your 2023 household income. If your actual income for the tax year is more than what was projected when you applied for health insurance in the Health Insurance Marketplace, then you are required to pay back a portion of the excess Advance Premium Tax Credit or subsidy that you received when you file your taxes.

Are Unemployment Benefits Taxable?

Typically, unemployment income is taxable and should be included in your income for the year. Some states may also count unemployment benefits as taxable income. When it’s time to file your taxes, you will receive Form 1099-G, which will show the amount of unemployment income you received. Form 1099-G will also show any federal taxes you had withheld from your unemployment pay.

Businesswoman carrying a box of her belongings.

Can I Deduct the Cost of Searching for a Job? Are Moving Expenses for My New Job Tax Deductible?

Unfortunately, for tax years 2018 through 2025, the tax deduction for job search expenses was eliminated on your federal taxes under tax reform, along with all miscellaneous itemized deductions. The tax deduction for moving expenses for non-military taxpayers was also eliminated. In order to deduct certain moving expenses, you must be an active member of the military and moving due to a permanent change of duty station.

What are the Tax Implications of Withdrawing Money Early from a Retirement Account to Pay Bills or Debt?

Typically, withdrawing money early from a retirement account comes with a 10 percent tax penalty if you withdraw your money before age 59-1/2 in addition to the regular income tax on the amount withdrawn. There can be other consequences, too. The retirement money may also bump you into a higher tax bracket, which can result in the taxation of other income, such as social security, that you may have not been taxed on otherwise.

Person transferring money on their laptop.

I Was Impacted by a Natural Disaster in 2023. What Tax Breaks Are Available to Me?

Prior to tax reform, you were able to deduct most losses for uninsured casualty, disaster and theft losses. Under tax reform provisions, deductions for casualty and theft losses have changed for tax years 2018 through 2025. If you suffered a casualty or theft loss as a result of an unusual event like a flood, fire, or some other unforeseen event, you can deduct the loss if the casualty is within a federally declared disaster area or the theft occurred as a result of a federally declared disaster.

The IRS may provide additional special tax provisions to help recover financially from the impact of a disaster when the federal government declares a certain location to be a major disaster area. Depending on the circumstances, relief may be additional time to file returns and pay taxes. 

What are Qualified Education Expenses?

College tuition skyrockets every year, but the U.S. government provides incentives with education credits and deductions. For example, the American Opportunity Tax Credit benefits full-time and part-time college students in their first four years of college with a maximum $2,500 credit per student, provided you meet modified adjusted gross income requirements. You may also be eligible for the Lifetime Learning Credit up to $2,000, even if you take one college course.

I Started My Own Business. Can I Deduct My Home Office Expenses?

Many entrepreneurs are reluctant to write off the business use of their home for fear of being audited. But home office expenses are legitimate tax deductions you shouldn’t miss out on. Keep in mind the space you claim as a home office should be used exclusively and regularly for that purpose. Don’t forget to include the square footage of your home office used for product storage or inventory.

What If I Still Have Questions?

Don’t worry about knowing these tax laws. No matter what moves you made last year, TurboTax will make them count on your taxes. Whether you want to do your taxes yourself or have a TurboTax expert file for you, we’ll make sure you get every dollar you deserve and your biggest possible refund – guaranteed. 

Get started now
Lisa Greene-Lewis
Lisa Greene-Lewis

Written by Lisa Greene-Lewis

Lisa has over 20 years of experience in tax preparation. Her success is attributed to being able to interpret tax laws and help clients better understand them. She has held positions as a public auditor, controller, and operations manager. Lisa has appeared on the Steve Harvey Show, the Ellen Show, and major news broadcast to break down tax laws and help taxpayers understand what tax laws mean to them. For Lisa, getting timely and accurate information out to taxpayers to help them keep more of their money is paramount. More from Lisa Greene-Lewis

Follow Lisa Greene-Lewis on Twitter.

243 responses to “TurboTax Answers Most Commonly Asked Tax Questions”

  1. I recently purchased a new computer and re-loaded my current year issue of Turbotax. Do I need to reload prior years for TT to get my filing information?

  2. Why would the Michigan Department of Treasury say my refund was deposited on April 16th and my turbo tax prepaid card don’t see a deposit.

  3. My 1099r Ira has the taxable amount unknown checked. How do I fix since turbotax Then shows it as u taxable?

    • Hello Thomas,
      If your 1099R Statement Box 2a for the Taxable Amount is marked as ‘Unknown’; this means that your Employer, Retirement agency, did not calculate the tax-free portion of your annuity/retirement or income received. If funds are distributed directly to you, and the issuing agency cannot determine the taxable amount, because they may not know whether you have made any non-deductible (after-tax) contributions to the account. Turbo Tax calculates the tax due.
      Thanks

  4. This is my first time e-filing, why it didn’t ask me my signature? I was afraid to proceed, thought it would ask me/my husband to e-sign the form before filing?

  6. My son is a 3rd. I’m trying to file my taxes but it won’t accept 3rd or third so how am I supposed to put it down?

  7. I donated my car to the society for the blind last summer and they told me I had a $500.00 tax credit for it. They also said I could transfer it to someone else if I didn’t want to use it. What I want to know is – how do I transfer it?

  9. I just received a letter from the Wisconsin Dept of Revenue, stating that my 2014 and 2016 state tax returns are being audited for failure to report federally tax-exempt interest income. When I check my WI tax returns, I see that TT included that interest income in 2015 and 2017 WI tax returns, but not my 2014 and 2016 WI tax returns…why???? Now I get to pay the tax due + interest + penalties and late fees???
    How about when the fault is due to a TT error, that Intuit/TT pays the interest and penalties and late fees??

  11. Hi there!
    I had to resign from my retail job and as part of it was allowed to cash out my PTO, I make 12.03 an hour and I had 54 hours of PTO making a total cash out of $649.62. What percentage of this amount should I save for taxes? And do I put it under income or under bonuses? If it matters I believe that I will be making under $10,000 before tax this year either way. I also live in Raleigh NC.
    Thank you.

  12. Simple Question??? How long after my Tax Filing is accepted by the IRS will I get my Refund? This should be the number ONE response.

  13. Hi,

    If you file your taxes with your last paystub and the amount that was made was more than what your W2 says.Would it effect your refund,and what can be done to fix

  14. My son and I fill up our taxes separately. We had moved to a new address , we were transfer to a job with the same company. Our moving qualifying expenses are more than $ 2000.00.
    We shared costs with the same credit card and cash. How can we claim the costs in our income taxes? We use Turbo tax every year

  15. Why does it say i got a 360 dollar credit for paying interest on student loans but it only added 53 to my fed and 3 to my state?

  16. I think I goofed up on my state returns & may have to do a amended return. My return says I’m entitled to 600.00 but do not expect a check,because I applied it to my taxes for 2016. I don’t know how I goofed that up. What do I do?

    Thanks!

  17. what is the difference between putting down rent or own home…. should i file single or married my final decree for divorce hasn’t come through but i been separated for almost 8 months …. i have a 4 year old …..

  18. Hi I have a question..
    My husband lost his job last year and cashed in his retirement early he opted to have the taxes taken out then . My question is with his retirement and his earned income for last year we qualify for earned income credit. We have 4 dependents and I was wondering if he will get the federal he paid back since when qualifying for earned income credit you get back all federal taxes also. Should I expect earned income credit this year to include the Federal that was deducted from early withdrawal? Thanks

  19. When u file taxes an it tell you how much you get back for federal an va refund after you put in all your w2 does that includes your kids tax credit or it shows after you click file

  20. What would you have to do to receive the child credit on your taxes?? Do you have to make enough?? And how much for 3 children??

  22. I forgot to claim my daughter, she’s 11, on my taxes last year. I thought it was her father’s turn. Will I be subject to penalties and fines.

    • After I sent my return I discovered that I messed up my ss# Do I amend my return I just did it yesterday?

  23. I went to efile my w2s and I did my boyfriends for him as well, I’m getting back more income tax than him, however he gets paid more than I do at his job, at least double what I make, why is that? We both elected to receive more money on our paychecks than our income tax too.

  24. My son worked in 2014 but did not file that year because I filed him s a dependent. He is filing this year with a dependent of his own. Can he file his 2015 and 2014 W-2’s together this year

  26. I had two children in college in 2015. Each received “financial aid” but I had to pay out of pocket for both an approximate total amount of $7,000. Am I gonna get any type of credit for this out of pocket money? Also, my 23 year has not job even though he graduated but still lives at home. Can I claim him? He had a job for about 1 1/2 months, will he need to file?

  27. If i got a early loan from a tax company can i fill my own taxes and pay them back what i borrowed cause for 200$ i got to pay back 280 wich i have. O problem doing but they also said they must do my taxes now my total is $480.

  28. I’m a full-time employe. My wife recently got a job in December anfd worked for only last 4 days of the month. Can I still claim her as a dependent while filing joint tax return? She earned ~$500 this year.

  30. I’m looking over my sons taxes and his 2013 were never filled correctly after he did an extension. If he download it and tries to print it says ” preview only” can that me mailed in? we have 2 order numbers for a total of almost $80.00 for federal and state. The state never went threw at all. What can he do to make this right.

  31. We paid our grandson $5,385 for some part time help on the farm this year. What kind of form should we give him for his taxes? That is all the money he made. He was 19 and still living at home. Should we have withheld money for taxes, medicare and/or social security?

    • Hi Deanie,
      If you considered him an employee, you should give him a W-2. Your grandson would not be subject to all of the normal taxes that are withheld since family members may not be subject to the same taxes as other employees. You are required to withhold income taxes, but depending on the type of business you have your grandson may not be subject to all employment taxes. Here is more information to help you
      http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Family-Help
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  32. I worked 6 weeks in 2014 no income tax was withheld just s/s 25.50 I have retirement check and social security less than 18,000.00 a year , no taxes are withheld from retirement or social security do I have to file taxes?

    • Hi Betty,
      If you received retirement income you do have to file your taxes since that income will also be reported to the IRS. Depending on how much it is, it may require a portion of your social security to be taxed since a portion of your social security income may be taxable since you have other sources of income. If half of your social security plus your retirement income exceeds $25,000 if single ($32,000 if married filing jointly). You can click here to start filing https://turbotax.intuit.com/
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  33. My husband that has a daughter that lives in New York and we drive 8 hours every other weekend to pick her up and return her, can we deduct the mileage and gas on our taxes???

    • Hi Jill,
      Unfortunately, you would only be able to deduct it if it was directly related to a business or taking a class for your job.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  35. I filled out my daughter’s taxes. She is a medical student in the East Coast, but resides here in California. She earned income last summer (2014) in California. Turbo tax will not allow me to e-file for her because I claimed her on our taxes (used her SS#). I now have to send in her tax documents through snail mail, but, I need her signature. She is back on the East coast and cannot get her signature on these tax documents. How do I file for her? Can I sign with a note attached? BTW, she is getting back money from both the state and the feds.

    • Hello Irene,
      No, you shouldn’t sign her name for her. This could be construed as forgery and wouldn’t be advised. The best solution, however, would be to certify mail the documents to her so she can sign, then just have her mail them in after she has done so.

      Thanks,
      Nicolle

  36. I purchased 2013 software but didn’t do my taxes for 2013. I have also purchase 2014 software to do this years taxes. If I need to do my 2013 taxes do I have to use my 2013 software or can I do both years using my 2014 software?

    • Hey there, Jasmine-
      Yes, you would need to use your 2013 software to file a 2013 return. There are certain situations only applicable to certain years, so not every year software will be the same. After completing your 2013 return, print and mail it—the IRS has shut down e-filing for tax year 2013.

      For information on where to mail your 2013 return, please go to https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1900672

      Thanks,
      Nicolle

    • Greetings, Jasmine

      Yes. You need to use your 2013 TurboTax software to complete a 2013 income tax return. Each TurboTax year is exclusive to its filing year. This is additionally important because filing a 2013 return using 2014 software can cause a myriad of problems including, but not limited to, penalties and interest, informal audits, and extra time spent reentering so much data.

      Best regards,

      TurboTaxDougR

  37. I’m filing by W-2 form using the TurboTax software I bought last year. I did all the necessary updates on the TurboTax software but for some reason, it shows filing for 2013. Is this correct?

    • Hello Henry,
      Thank you for returning to use TurboTax. I understand that you made updates to your 2013 tax software, but you will still need to purchase the 2014 software to file your 2014 tax return. At the start of every tax year, we release a new program. Tax laws change, forms get updated, and new tax forms get created – especially this year, with the Affordable Care Act. In addition, we’re constantly redesigning the program to improve your tax preparation experience year after year. Because TurboTax is built for a specific tax year, you’ll need TurboTax 2014 to file your 2014 tax return. There is no way to update your TurboTax 2013 (or earlier) software to handle the 2014 tax law changes. You can visit the following link for more information on TurboTax online and desktop software for 2014: https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/?view=desktop

      Thank you for using TurboTax,

      TurboTax Sherri

  38. I paid over 2,000 in old motor vehicle taxes last year. Would I be able to claim any of this in this years taxes?

    • Hi Sweetpea32,
      The IRS has a simple rule for many personal deductions, including the property tax you pay on your home. You deduct the expense when you pay for it. In other words, if you pay your property taxes early, you can claim the deduction early, and if you pay your property taxes late, you have to claim the deduction late, as well, but you don’t lose the deduction.
      State and local taxes imposed on personal property are deductible if three conditions are met: the tax must be:

      based on the value of the property,

      imposed on an annual basis, and

      imposed on personal property (a car is considered personal property).

      Payment for car, truck, or RV registration and licensing or a motor vehicle tax may be deductible as a personal property tax if it is imposed annually and assessed in proportion to the value of the car. The only condition is you have to itemize your deductions (schedule A) to take advantage of the deduction.

      As a side note. there was a credit for sales and excise taxes paid on new vehicles bought during 2009. This would only be deductible on your 2009 return. Which you would need to amend if you qualify for this credit. I only mention this as you said the taxes were “old” and offer it as a possibility.

      This link gives more info on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Which is the credit for sales and excise taxes paid on new vehicles purchased in 2009 that I mentioned

      http://www.irs.gov/uac/Sales-Tax-Deduction-for-Vehicle-Purchases

  39. Someone filed 2014 tax return on my social security number. I have spoken with the IRS who alerted me of this possibility. I now have a bill from Turbo Tax demanding payment for online service I didn’t use.
    What should I do?

  40. Hi, I am non resident in USA from another country. Currently I am graduate assistant and received my W2. I tried using turbo tax but it did not file for non residents. I am in Arkansas, can you provide me right state tax form to be filled. Non-resident alien, independent.

  41. HI:) I am trying to do my taxes through turbo tax for year 2013 and 2014. Last year I was unable to do my taxes. How do I go about filing for both years? Do I have to sign into 2013 turbo tax in order to file for both years? Will I be charged twice?

    • Hi Lindsey,
      You do have to sign in two different times since tax laws change every year the software is different every year. In addition 2013 is no longer available online since the IRS is closed for e-file for 2013. You can download the software for 2013 from here
      https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products.jsp and then go online and do 2014. Depending on your tax situation in 2014 you may be able to file your 2014 federal taxes free https://turbotax.intuit.com/.
      You don’t have to file your 2013 first, but if you have a refund coming for 2014 the IRS will not process it until your 2013 is filed and processed.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  42. I’m almost 17 and I work, I support my little sister because my mom is not working right now can I make my taxes with Turbotax?

    • Hey there, Eddie-
      You absolutely can do your taxes with TurboTax. Please visit https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/ to answer a few brief questions about yourself, and we will recommend the right product for you. Also, on that site, you will be able to see a full list of our products and what specific tax situations they support just in case you want to see your various options.
      Remember, you can always start in the Federal Free Edition, and if it is needed, then the program will request that you upgrade to support your tax situation.

      Thank you,
      Nicolle Lesuer

  43. I made 15,869 which is 1099 and 11,250 which is a w2 they with held 474.18 fed and 466.30 state we have a child we claim wife is on permanent disability would we owe the government?

    • Is the form an 1099 Misc? Or which 1099 form? Now the 11,250 was only with held from the W2 or both the W2 and 1099? How old is the child you claim ? Since age of a child/dependant does matter the younger the child is it seems higher the EIC becomes. I see that you mention your wife is on disability so I assume this return would be for both of you as filing jointly married? Did your wife receive an SSA 1099 form aka from SSD? If so it depends on the amt of payments at end of the year for rather disability is taxable or isn’t taxable. Now SSD is the disability that people receives any wheres from the 3rd of the month or they pay could be on the 2nd or 3rd Wednesday or Thursday of each month etc., however SSI is received always on the 1st of each month = periodically. Unless otherwise the 1st lands onto an weekend and or Holiday then the last week day of the month would be the date the person gets his/her check stipend. Example: on the 30th or 31st sometimes people receive their SSI just because that’s the last date of month that falls onto an week day which is not holiday accredited.

  44. i am 24 and I will be 25 next I am graduate and I still go to school for my master I know my father can’t claim me as his dependent, if I don’t work who will claim my tuition money.

    • Who said your dad can’t claim you as his dependent? As long as you were under 24 or up to the age of 24 on Dec.31st 2014 you can still be an dependent of your dads as long as he had you living with him for 6months or more in the past year aka 2014 and provided atleast half of your support. Now it depends on his income as to which College credit you are elgible for and also the amt you will receive as an added credit for your dads refund. All he has to do is search in Google for : can an 24 yr old college student be claimed as an dependent and then thus will verify that I am correct. The American Hope Credit is usually the credit in which the system mainly elects to allow yourself or your dad to claim since it offers the most back as an refund. I have read that this specific credit allows up to $2500 refund. Many people that I know have received no less than $1,000 credit and those who weren’t married had received $2,000 credit I am unaware of all the situations which apply that determines exact amt your dad will get refunded but even a grand would be better than nothing especially if you have FAFSA / Financial Aide therefore you wouldn’t had to of paid much out of pocket expenses if any. Now you should had received an letter from your school and plz be advised if so, IRS has already been mailed an official document showing proof of your enrollment. Therefore with 1 day left I assume you should have your dad immediately begin his taxes online tonight or 1st thing early AM tmrw. If your dad already has filed and left your college form out of his refund he may follow the steps to amend his tax refund which simply he would transfer his completed returns info onto his amended forms plus add in the college credit / tuition form then e-file it since mailing it wont get accepted unless he already put into theirs for an 6mnth extension. Please don’t opt out of this credit when it seems since you don’t work you cant support your own self therefore an grand up to $2500 could really be beneficial for your support/well being. Also make sure your dad double checks to make sure he elected under credits the EIC credit if he had already filed, and if he hasn’t done no refund submission make sure he does still elect the EIC. Usually the software will take him step by step which will lead him into the direction of the EIC form. But yes being up to 24yrs old your validated still to be an dependent. In fact in many other situations also other people above 24 are still claimed as dependents however in some rare cases instead of an refund credit people above 24 only bring an deduction on someone’s taxes. But yes you are elgible as an accredited dependent therefore not only will you be an deduction you will be an qualified refund dependent.

  45. Hi,
    In 2014 I lived on campus for both the spring and fall semester, was enrolled full time, and paid for my tuition and boarding as well as expenses with student loans. Then I lived with my older sister in South Carolina for the entire summer. The only things my parents pay for are my cell phone and for me to be on their car insurance but I don’t have a car of my own. I might’ve been at home for a month at most counting visits. I worked over the summer and I received a W-2 in January so I filed taxes for the first time and since my parents didn’t pay for anything, I filed independently. My taxes were accepted and I’ve already gotten my refund back. My parents are finally doing theirs and are trying to file me as a dependent because I was still a “student.” I need to know if this is going to affect my taxes and if this is even legal since I can’t be both independent and dependent?

    Thanks.

    • Hi Sara,
      If you were a full time student under 24 you would be considered a “qualifying child” but in order for them to claim you, you could not provide over half of your own support which it sounds like you do. If you already filed and received your tax refund their claim will be denied.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  46. My wife made way more money than me, and was expecting a nice tax return. I made less than half what she did, but was paid 1099-misc.
    After filing, we owe money.
    Why is that? How is that possible?

  48. Hello. The past two years I’ve received around 1,200, nothing’s changed. Jobs, yes, but basically the same duration and wages. I claim my child, she’s in my sole custody. Why is it that this year it’s saying 359?

  49. I have not filed my taxes yet but i realized my w2 said i was claiming 3 dependents when it was just suppose to be myself. I had my work change my dependent status, but what I’m worried about is when i file this year will I have to owe money?

  50. I live in Kansas so cannot claim my auto registration as a state deduction. However, I can claim the property tax I paid on it on my Federal return, I believe. Is this true and if so where do I enter it, under Deductions and Credits: Property Taxes or under Deductions and Credits: Personal Property Taxes?

  51. I’m unemployed now. But I’ve got a w2.from jack in the box. I’m trying to file, and one the question asks employment

  52. What if someone entered(2) w2’s last year, theirs and their wife’s. For some reason only one was excepted. They know They entered two though! So it’s looking like the wife didn’t file this year…. What should be done

    • Hi Brian,
      So it looks like one W-2 from 2013 wasn’t filed. Is that correct? If that’s the case, then you should amend your 2013 taxes and include the one that is missing. If it is for 2014, if your tax return was already accepted you will have to amend. If it was rejected you can just go in and fix it.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

    • Hi Kay,
      Yes, it is possible. Plus, although you may be below the income filing threshold you may be able to get money back on your taxes if you had federal taxes withheld and are eligible for credits like the earned income tax credit.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  55. My brother is married his wife went and did her taxes and filed that she is single. She has an dependent. Could this affect him when He file. Should He file married filing separate or should he file single too.

  56. Cam I claim my boyfriend, who is a full time student, and has also partially worked the year( having 2 w2)? and if I submitted my taxes already, can we make changes?

    • Hi Payton,
      The fact that he is a full-time student would only be relative if you were trying to claim him and you are his parent. For you, you could only claim him(a non-relative), if he lived with you the entire year, you provided over half of his support, and he didn’t earn over $3,950. TurboTax will walk you through claiming dependents and give you the deduction if you are eligible.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  57. received payment for a job in 2015 but ALL my expensives were in 2014, how do I get to deduct my expensives in Turbotax without showing a large profit in 2015 taxes next year.
    I have a machine shop in my home and I do this at night.

  58. My husband worked at a job for a couple months last yr and has a W-2 then started up his own business. I worked at a job and have a W-2. Do we have to file together?

    • Hi Tamara,
      You don’t have to. You could file married filing separately instead of married filing jointly, but either way you have to file as married. In most cases, couples get a bigger tax refund or have less tax liability when they file as married filing jointly, because the tax rate is lower and when you file married filing jointly you are eligible for tax deductions and credits that you can’t take if you file married filing separately.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

      • To TurbotaxLisa, Thank you so much for answering my question. You have helped me a ton!!! I really appreciate your quick response!!!

  59. My parents claimed me as a dependant. I was not in school more than 5 months full time but did live with them. They claim my college credi and tax document for school but didn’t claim my I come of $20k. Do
    Should they be able to claim me or should I call the IRS so I can claim my own taxes?

    • Hi Alli,
      If you are a full-time student under the age of 24 you would be considered a “qualifying child” and your income would not come into play in order for them to claim you. If that is the case as long as you didn’t provide over half of your own support they can claim you.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  60. Say I claim a dependent whio may owe the government money. If I claim that individual will the government take what he/she owes out of my returns??

  61. my daugther support me with money, should I declared in my taxes this year. I got my job and I will do my own taxes

  62. I’ve Only Worked For Less Than 6 Months And I Received A W-2 From My Work. Do I Have To File? My Parents Also Claimed Me This Year With Their Taxes. So I Wouldn’t Be Able To Claim Myself If My Parents Already Did Right? I’m Confused It’s My First Year Please Help? Please Email Me

  63. I have had 3 jobs. I worked for the state at a university and for a grocery store that changed ownership so I got 2 different w-2s. So, I have a total of 3 w-2 forms. I have no deductions and dependents and don’t own a house or have aNY stocks bonds or other things to that kind. Can I still use a 1040 ez or a for this?

  64. My husband and I were insured all last year, ( we had a family plan) and received the subsidy through the healthcare market place. We file our taxes separately every year. How do we file separately again legally, without being penalized.

  65. I had twins at the beginning of last year and two other children, I only made $4300 due to a lengthy medical leave due to the twins birth, why am I only receiving $2000 back on my income tax, does the amount of children not have an influence on the amount?

  66. Can I claim my 2 adult children (26 & 22) if still living in my home? They both have jobs but I still am main supporter

  67. I had a baby in sep of 2014 he had heart problems so he passed away in october of 2014 will i be able to claim him as a dependant when i file my taxes this year

  69. my wife retired las jan. and withdraw her retirement pay and her 401k and then april of 2014, she open her own business as sole propreitorship. can we file a joint return for 2014 then she can file her own taxes as a sole proprietorship..

  72. I used turbo tax to file my taxes.Do they also file my rent credit?Or do I have to mail that in myself?

  73. My wife and I are partners in an LLC. I was told that each partner can automatically claim a $3800 deduction on our individual returns. Is this true?

  75. My wife sold a house in Mississippi this year and we used part of the money to pay off a mobile home that is in our daughter’s name. We lived in the trailer but we also bought another house that we moved into. The mobile home is being sold. Do I owe taxes on the money from Mississippi or would the mobile home have to be put in my name first?

  76. I am receiving social security benefits. I also am making mortgage payments on my house. If I stay in the range and don’t pay taxes would I still be able to get refund from interest being paid on mortgages. thank you

  77. For the 2014 tax year i adopted 4 children. i was told that i could get a one time payment of 13,000 per child. is this true

  78. My husband & I receive approximately $32,000 a year in Social Security. When we were preparing 2013 taxes, it said we owed no taxes. But we have itemized deductions that would have probably given us a refund. What do we do about that? Can we still get a refund when not owing taxes?

  79. What’s the min. Someone can get back for a dependent in 2013 and when is the latest u can file ur taxes

  80. Attractive section of content. I just stumbled upon your weblog and in accession capital to assert that I get in fact enjoyed account your blog posts. Any way I’ll be subscribing to your feeds and even I achievement you access consistently fast.

  81. My daughter is 16, worked part time and earned $572.00 in 2013 and received a W2. As her parents we claimed her as a dependent. Does she need to file a tax return?

  82. For 2013 i earned roughly $4000.
    Was in college for half the year, and am being claimed as a dependent by my mother.

    Do i have to file taxes this year for 2013?

    • Hi John,
      You do not make the income threshold to require you to file taxes, but you may be able to get a tax refund if you had taxes taken out. If you do file your taxes, you will not be able to claim an exemption for yourself.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  83. Hello,
    I am a divorced father of 2. My kids are with me a minimum of 2-3 nights per week. I pay their healthcare, pay support to their mother etc. She claims both of them on her taxes. Can I claim head of household?
    Thank you.

    • Hi,
      To qualify as head of household your kids have to live with you more than half the year. TurboTax will ask you the necessary questions to give you the deductions and credits you’re eligible for.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  84. I’m getting slammed this year due to my wages vs lose of home deductions, dependents, head of household, etc. due to a divorce. I’m over 50 yrs of age and contribute 15% of my annual wages to a company sponsored 401K…..To lower the $5,000 amount that I owe on top of the 12,000 already paid via payroll tax deductions….Can I offset the tax burden of $5k and write a check for $5k to my 401k prior to April 15th? I’d rather pay myself rather than the government.

    • Hi Sean, Sorry to hear about your tax return for this year. You’re asking a good question, however the contributions for your 401(K) are taken out of your wages each paycheck and reduce the amount of wages that is taxable. Your contributions can only be made through your paycheck. You can’t contribute directly to your 401(k).

      Lee

  85. I receive a FERS (not CSRS) annuity from the US Postal Service. Turbo tax is not clear on which selection to make for the 1099R. It doesn’t seem right to choose the 401K category for a pension. Help would be appreciated…

  86. My boyfriend and I opened a business in 2013. We did not incorporate and instead opened it as a sole proprietor. We do business with multiple companies and received 1099’s for them. Some of the 1099’s came with his info and some came with my info. We are so confused as to how to do our taxes. We are children together but are not legally married. How do we determine what portion of the business each one claims. Can I claim everything myself?

    • Hi Liz,
      If you are not incorporated you would each have to prepare your taxes separately and claim the 1099s on each of your taxes according to who they are issued to. You could not claim everything yourself since the 1099s are tied to your individual social security numbers and the IRS will match the 1099 copies they receive to your individual tax returns so file only the 1099s that are made out to you and your boyfriend will have to file the ones made out to him on his tax return. TurboTax will guide you through accurately filing your taxes and if you have any questions while you’re preparing your taxes you can ask our tax experts who are CPAs and Enrolled Agents your question.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  87. I didn’t pay my 2012 taxes couldn’t afford to pay I recently amended them in order to claim eic for my child and now expect a refund. I got a notice stating they Took $500 from 2013 due to non payment for 2012 will they send a check back as I no longer owe them?

  89. I’ve heard the starting next year (2014 tax season). That you’ll no longer be able to claim your child or non working spouse as a dependant. Is that true?

  90. Can i get my money back if I put dependents on my w2 forms and I was not supposed to put any?

    • Most likely you will owe IRS. Plus you are lying to the governtment when you claim dependants thst you are not entitle.

  92. If you are claiming your girlfriend as a dependent, what option do you pick from the drop down box? I don’t see an option that will fit. thank you

    • Hi,
      In the drop down menu select “other” and then answer the rest of the questions. If you claim a non-relative you have to answer the question about whether or not they live with you the entire year, you provide over half of their support, they make less than $3,900 earned income for the year, and citizenship.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

  93. My ex did not claim my daughter last year 2012 taxes. He said I could claim my daughter this year 2013 taxes. I didn’t work in 2012 can I claim her on my taxes this year for 2012?

    Im just trying to figure out what I can do for this years taxes on claiming my daughter

  94. I have been on unemployment, for 2013 collected 12,488 in income, I have one dependent, can I get a refund still?

  95. I use turbo tax to guide me through the tax process it asked my filing status and i filed married seperate return. I was asked aboit child care expenses. I answered the questions and it calculated 600 towards this expense. My return refund was changed by the ira and my refund reduced by 600 because you cant claim this deduction if your filing status is married filing separately. I am really dissatisfied with the turbo tax product and feel i should get a reduction in my preparation fees.

  96. My boyfriends in jail and he’s telling me I can file he’s taxes he never claimed from 2009 to 2010 how can I get poa and he’s w2 forms??!! He said he doesn’t have them I have to go to he’s old job but how can I do this?!?!? Please help!!

  97. Am I able to file for a tax refund I got my w2 from ihss I made 4,726 it show all $0 with federal,Medicare, social security tax withheld I called the payroll they said its because I made to little to take taxes out.. I’m so confused ?? Last year my made way lesser n I was able to do tax n some tax we’re takin out

  98. I bought a heat pump in jan 2014. Can I claim my credit on this years taxes(2013) or do I have to wait until 2014 taxes?

    • If you purchased the item in 2014 you can not claim it fpr the tax year 2013. You have to wait.

  99. can i file for taxes using a 1098-t form and claim my daughter if i didnt work in 2013… shes 6 months

  100. I am planning on using the Home and Business version for my husband and myself to file jointly and use schedule C to report sole proprietor income. Our college age student has income and wants to apply for his refund. Can I use the same software- chosing the 1040EZ form-or must I purchase another set of software for his return?

  101. Can i claim my mom as dependent? I support her financially regularly on a monthly basis. She lived here for about 6 months but decided to go back to El Salvador she has SSN. Does she qualify since she is in Cental America?

    Thank you.

  102. My employee benefits package includes flexible spending account which I take advantage of. This year I had expenses in excess of the amount set aside in the account. Can I deduct them?

  103. My grandson borrowed money and signed a promissory note. He and his wife divorced and he has moved out of town and has not made anymore payments since May. Can I claim this as a loss?

  105. Hey,
    Someone in my Facebook group shared this website with us so I came to give it a look. I’m enjoying the content! Outstanding blog

  107. my Va. state return keeps getting rejected because they say box 16 can not be greater than box 1 on my W-2 form. It is not,it’s the exact same number- what’s that all about?

  108. A married couples filed jointly online, this was done yearly on turbo Tax website by the husband, My questions are, is it required by law that the wife must signed the finished printed tax copies? If yes, is it okay for the husband to signed/forged the wife’s signature? If no, will this be call a violation? if the husband signed electronically and the wife signed manually where will this signed copies send to?

    • Hi – There is no need to sign (or mail) printed copies of your return if you are efiling a joint return. But you of course should print a copy for your records. Hope that clarifies! –Christopher

  109. I recently joined a medical practice where a percentage of my earnings goes back to the practice. How would I account for this, a Form 1099? Also, I’ve been told that the first 50K earned if self employed is not taxed. Is there any truth to that? If so, what if you are filling married filing jointly.Thank you!

    • Hi Rick – You may be thinking of the the $49,000 exemption for the Alternative Minimum Tax. But that does not apply to the regular federal income tax — the same exemptions and deductions apply for the self-employed as for employees. As for how your reinvested earnings are reported, there are many different possibilities that depend on factors such as the business form of the practice (partnership, LLC, etc) and whether your “earnings” are wages or profits. You’ll need to ask your colleagues. Cheers… –Christopher

  111. I am a self employed non US Citizen living abroad and started doing business in 2012 with a US Company. Do I have to pay taxes for those payments I have received ? Thank you in advance !!

    • Hi – It depends on whether the work took place within the U.S. If not, then you would likely not be subject to U.S. income tax. Hope that clarifies. –Christopher

  112. My friend does not own anything. He only made $12,500 but he did donate his car to the “Cars for Kids” not for profit agency. Does he claim the $500 tax credit or does that not apply because he does not really own anything?

    • Hi! Do you mean he doesn’t owe anything (in taxes)? There’s no federal credit for donating a car to charity — only a deduction from taxable income. So if he has no tax liability, then the charitable donation won’t help his refund at all. The attached link has more details. Hope it helps! –Christopher

  114. Here is the simple situation: Partnership with calendar fiscal year, owned 8% of another LLC. The % was set per the 2010 operating agreement of the LLC. Despite being in operation, the Company only started generating revenue in Q4 of 2012 (this was controlled by the states “go-live”, and in a panic (long story) the majority holders sold to private equity in December 2012 (prior to year-end). Our role was passive to organization. We were paid our pro-rata share prior to YE. Can I assume that this is a long-term capital gain reported on the 1065 on line 13. Just want to make certain it is LT capital gain.

    • Hello James – Long-term or short-term gain is based on the date of the investment into the asset. As long as the actual investment into the Company was over 1 year, it would be considered LT gain. Thanks, Karen

  115. How many year can you take the depriciation for the roof and furnace.
    Can I use my adult brother as dependent for he is living free in my rental property.

  116. I am the only income earner of my family and employed in the United State My wife and Daughter are Canadian residence. Can I claim my wife and daughter on my 2012 tax returns with their Canadian NI numbers since they do not have their SSN yet in the US.

  117. Hi, Will I benefit if I claim a friend I supported for nine months but owes the IRS? Or will the income tax return go towards his payment?

  118. IF YOU RECEIVE A 1098T AND THE GOVERNMENT PAYS $20000. FOR INTUITION AND YOU RECEIVE $25000. YOU DONT QUALIFY FOR A TAX CREDIT.

  119. I have a friend that I have helped with her two grand children that she is raising and they live on there SS Checks and are both are disable to work. She told me she could not claim the Children for earned income tax because her husband no longer can work, so they don’t file income tax. When her husband was able to work they were able to claim the two boys. So they are having a real ruff time making ends meet. I have helped them with the kids as much as I can. They have sole custody of the children. How can I help them? How can I help them. The money for the children would help with food and clothes for the children. Thank you for your sponse on this matter. Dorris Maggio

    • Hi Doris – There’s not much help in the tax code for families like the one you describe. SSI, SSDI and disability benefits are already non-taxable, but one must must have earned income (i.e., be employed) to receive the Earned Income Credit. The attached link has more information. Best wishes… –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN80354

  120. My son and his girlfriend live together and and she actually supports him. He already filed his taxes on Turbo Tax, when she went to do hers she listed him as a dependent. Hers came back as rejected. After checking for errors, no errors came up. Can she still claim him as a dependent?

  121. I had an income of less than $5,000 last 2011 and didnt file it. In 2012 i had an income of less than $5,000 as well. Can i file for my income tax return then?

    Thanks.

    • Hi – You can choose to file even if you don’t need to — perhaps to get back any withholding taken out of your paycheck, or to claim the Earned Income Credit. Note, though, that you would need a copy of TurboTax 2011 to prepare a 2011 return, you can’t use this year’s program. Hope that clarifies.

  122. Can i claim my parents as dependent? I support them financially regularly on a monthly basis. The question is are they qualied since they live overseas?

    Thank you.

  123. I worked out of town I traveled every weekend to come back home can I deduct the miles or gas that I send to get my work every week also I would like to claim lodge, meals and my work clothing?

  124. I got a letter from the the irs saying i oew $680 for my 2012 tax year. This year I already filed for my 2013 tax and the $680 that i owe from last year was detucted. When i called the irs they said that the reason why i owe that amount is becausemy tax pre parer put my dad down as a non us citizen. My dad is a United Stated Citizen! How do i get this money back? I have his passport and ssn card who do i need to talk to in order to get this issue resolve! Please help!

    • Hi – Sorry you’re having this issue! You’ll need to work directly with the IRS on your situation. Amending your prior-year return won’t help if the IRS has already applied the offset. You can find the IRS’ contact info at this link: http://www.irs.gov/uac/How-to-Contact-the-IRS-1 Good luck! –Christopher

  125. *= mi esposo trabajo y su empleador le pago en efectivo le mando la hoja 1099 de lo ganado al momento de reportar el impuesto le dijeron que no recibiria el credito de nuestros dos hijos por que el tine solo itin para la taxes quisiera saver si es cierto

  126. my wifes mother has dimensia and is in a care facility.my wife does her laundry sometimes we pay for in house haircuts but mostly its the fuel and wear on our car.my wife probably puts on a couple thousand miles a year.its almost 100 miles round trip to facility.can we claim anything.she is executor of will and the only sibling doing anything to help

  127. I’ve been retired on SSDI since 2008 (“my” only income). My wife retired 11/11/11, drawing a pension & SSI for 2012. Her pension withheld “very little” for taxes in 2012 so for the 1st time, we owe a bundle [Married filing jointly with high itemized deductions]. Q- can we file “married filing separately” and I claim only my SSDI and she claim her pension, SDI and the itemized deductions? That should greatly lower our outrageous tax owed for 2012.

    • Hi – You are certainly entitled to file as married Filing Separately, but most couples benefit from filing jointly. Filing separately reduces or even eliminates many deductions and credits. Also, special rules apply in community property states. The attached link has more details. Hope it helps! –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN83639

  128. My son is a college student.His 1098 -T shows he got more scholarship and grants than his tuition fees. My question is if he is able get any kind of tax credit like hope and American education credit as he is my dependant.Thanks

    • Hi – First, if he is your dependent, then you must claim the education tax credits on his behalf. Second, if all his qualified education expenses were covered by grants and scholarships, then you likely are not eligible for the credits anyway. Indeed, if he really received more in scholarships than he was billed in tuition, then the excess may be considered taxable income. He may want to confirm with the school that his Form 1098-T is correct. More information is available at this link: https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN12259 –Christopher

  129. My wife received a lot of clothes and old items from a friend in a different state and donated them all to the local Good Will in that state. Can we claim the deduction on our tax return?

    • Hi – Typically the thrift store will give you a receipt indicating the value of the items you donate. If you have that receipt, then you should be able to claim the value, especially if it’s a modest amount, say less than $250. The attached link has more details. –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN80369

  130. We own a 2 family house and have a tenant that wasn’t able to work in 2012, so couldn’t pay rent. Is there a form we can use to file for utilities and repairs as we aren’t allowed to use schedule E because we didn’t collect any rent? Thank you, JC

    • Hi – There’s no other way to report rental income and expenses other than Schedule E, but you may be able to carry over the losses to offset future income. So you should still enter those expenses, even if you collected no rent. The attached link has more information. –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN12255

  131. Can I claim my son, he is 37 years old, unemployed, he staying in my house for last couple years. Thanks

  132. Turbo Tax had computed our long and short term gains on stock investments. The long term gain should be taxed at 15% but Turbo Tax is showing it as earned income and lumped it together with everything else on the 1040 form. How can I be sure that Turbo Tax is only computing 15% on this portion of our income as our overall tax rate is closer to 23% Help…Help

  133. What educational expenses qualify for Lifetime Learning Credit for my children who are in grad schools full time.
    Only the ones from 1098T form or also the cost of the books purchased on line. What other cost qualify for that credit.
    Thanks.

    • Hi – Qualified education expenses under the Lifetime Learning Credit include tuition, student-activity fees, and expenses for course-related books, supplies, and equipment — BUT ONLY if the fees and expenses must be paid directly to the institution as a condition of enrollment or attendance. The attached link has more details. –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN80422

  134. My mother passed away August 2012. She was on Medicaid and had no money. I paid the $9000 for her funeral can I deduct that on my taxes.

    • Sorry for your loss. Unfortunately, the estate is expected to pay funeral costs out of estate assets. Any costs paid by family or friends are unfortunately not deductible. –Christopher

    • i have claimed my mother as a dependent for many years she passes away I paid cash for her funeral can I tak that expense off my tAXES

      • No, but you can still deduct her as a dependant a s long as she qualifies or meet standards for support 51per cent that you paid include room and board. Taking her back and forth to doc.

  135. Hello, recently refi my home (Nov, 2012) and they reduce the price by $207K. Do I pay taxes on that amount? Also, my partner is not working and hasn’t work in over a year, can I claim them on my taxes as a dependent exemptions

  136. Hi, my husband and myself would like to know is we can claim my parents. They both receive social security, but we have helped support them because they only receive 1500.00 a month and out of this they pay 500.00 for medical insurance to make up the difference from their Medicare Part B, car payment of 400.00 and insurance for car of 200.00. Their home was paid for but they have had to get a loan against it to have a new roof but on it. We send them money so that they are able to buy food and clothng.

  137. I have purchased my house in 2008 when I filed my taxes I was told that I qualified for almost 8 thousand; I took it but I did not know that I have to pay it back; I have friends they purchased their house in 2009 they got the same amount of money but they do not have to pay back; how come these things happen we are all people suffer from this impact of the economy; why some have to pay back and some not; what can I do to be in the same spot as my friends I need that money the IRS are deducting from my taxes.
    Please let me know!

    • Hi – Congress creates the tax code, not the IRS. And Congress, for whatever reason, decided that the 2008 Homebuyer Credit must be repaid over 15 years, but the 2009 and 2010 Homebuyer Credits do not need to repaid at all. Sorry if it seems unfair, but that’s indeed how the credits are structured. –Christopher

  138. I own my home so why can’t a person claim head of household even though they live alone?

    • Hi – Congress creates the tax code, not the IRS. And Congress, for whatever reason, has decided that the special filing status, Head of Household, should require that a “Qualifying Person” (usually a dependent child) must live in the household. The attached link has more details. –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN84056

  139. can i claim all my pharmacy expenses. all medications that were paid out of pocket in the year 2012 can i get a print out and put that on my taxes? never thought of that but someone told me i should. and also my car registration receipts?

    • Hi – You can only claim your prescription medicines; over-the-counter medicines are no longer deductible. A more detailed list of qualified expenses is available here: https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN80606

      As for vehicle registration fees – it varies by state. You should ask your local DMV for guidance. –Christopher

  140. If I claim my unemployed boyfriend as a dependent, will I become liable for his previously unpaid taxes and penalties?

    • Hi – The IRS does not apply refund offsets for delinquent debts owed by dependents, only the taxpayer. –Christopher

  141. Hi KarenL.

    We {my wife and I}filed our tax this year as married filing jointly through Turbo Tax and got the refund but told me she got nothing to give me, meaning she is taking all the money. Is there anything I can do? I am asking this beacuse if the refund is more than we are supposed to have, IRS we come after us to pay back and since I did not get my share of this year refund, I need to know what I should do. Someone told me to and report to the IRS. What do you think.

    • Hi – If a married couple files an accurate return and the IRS issues the refund expected, then there’s nothing the IRS is going to do to resolve a dispute between the two spouses about who gets to keep the refund. That’s an issue between you and your spouse.Hope that answers your question.–Christopher

      • Hi Christopher, And what happened if the refund was not accurate but the IRS had paid but one spouse kept all the money, will the IRS make both spouses pay back? Remember one of the spouses did not get a share of that refund

  143. My daughter is 26 and a full time student in Los Angeles, Calif. I live in North Carolina and have paid all her living expenses with the exception of $2000.00 during 2012. She lives in an apartment. All expenses were paid by me. Can I include her as a qualifying relative on my 2012 tax return.

    • Hi – The general rule for claiming an adult child as a dependent is that they must be single, have less than $3,800 in income (not including Social Security), and that you must provide at least half their total support. The attached link has the complete requirements. Cheers… –Christopher https://turbotax.intuit.com/support/go/GEN12426

  144. I could not figure out why my turbo tax I filed back on FEB 4 still is not in my acct. direct deposit I tried for weeks to get this answered. Finally I got a hold of IRS and they said my tax form is in a non postable acct due to wrong coding they said not my fault not turbo taxes fault but IRS fault. I said so I have to wait for someone to correct this IRS said yes. Someday I will get my money. IRS said due to changed tax laws. This I have never heard of and why does my return have to be coded? Experts can you answer this for me? Still waiting for my return. I should have had my return 21 days after filing for FEB 4. Thank you.

  145. My boyfriend and I work from home, we both have separate Ebay accounts. He has made over 20k and has received the 1099k from paypal, I have not. We are both completely lost as to what to do, what to file, who to talk to……we are both afraid were gonna go under!!!! Please HELP!!!

  146. I had a child in June, but have not yet applied for a SSN. Can I claim the Dependent and Child Care credit, or do I need to first obtain a SSN for my daughter?

    • Hi Carl,
      Sorry unfortunately you have to have your daughter’s SSN in order to claim the credit as well as claiming her as a dependent and any other dependent related credits or tax deductions.
      Thank you,
      Lisa Greene-Lewis

    • Hi Inewsom – It depends… If you are the only LLC member and have not elected to file as an S-Corp, then you will file a Schedule C with your individual return. That is easiest. If you are a multi-member LLC you will file as a Partnership (or S-Corp if you elected that) which will issue each member a K-1 form for their share of the profits/losses. If it you and your wife only on the LLC, then you will file as a Partnership or you can elect to file Schedule Cs if you live in a community property state. Please see this link http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Election-for-Husband-and-Wife-Unincor… Thanks, Karen

  149. Where in TurboTax Deluxe do I input data from the 1099-B form I received which includes Form8949, both short (part1) and long (part 2) figures/

    • Hi John G. – You input your 1099-B in the Wages & Income area. Go to the Federal Taxes tab, Wages & Income, Explore On My Own, scroll down to Investment Income, then Stocks, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Other. The software will prepare the Schedule D and Form 8949 for you based on your input. Thanks, Karen

  151. i have deluxe program. entered income from qualified pension plan. program asked how much is a RMD. RMDs are not required of a regular pension plan. What is going on??

    • Hi Jim – The RMD rules apply to all employer sponsored retirement plans, including pensions, profit-sharing plans, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, and 457(b) plans. The RMD rules also apply to traditional IRAs and IRA-based plans such as SEPs, SARSEPs, and SIMPLE IRAs. The software automatically asks about it when you turn 70 1/2. Your pension plan trustee automatically calculates the RMDs in their distribution. Hope that helps. Thanks, Karen

  152. I purchased the Primier Turbotax software, can I e-file my sons State tax also? Or can I only e-file my own Stae Tax return? Can I run his State tax with the same software and mail it?

    • Hi Bonita – You can prepare and file up to 5 tax returns on the Desktop/CD version of TurboTax. Only one taxpayer is allowed for the online version. Thanks, Karen

  153. I am very frustrated. On my Federal Taxes I have an Error Check.Check This Entry
    Carryover Worksheet: Total Withheld Payments, Carryover Worksheet-1 should be equal to or greater than the sum of amount Paid with Extension and amount of Estimates Paid after 12/31.

    Total W/H Pmts I worked last night and today trying to figure out the problem but none of the help lists tell me what to do. Please Help

  154. We recently got a new computer. I saved Turbo Tax 2011 to a disk. Do I need to download that and 2011 Software before doing 2012. I want to be sure it picks all info from last year. Or does it automatically pick up the info from the IRS? I am a real dummmy when it comes to computers.

    Thank you for your help.

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