Rule 11. You Cannot Be the
Dependent of Another Person

If you are not filing a joint return, you meet this rule if:

• You checked box 6a on Form 1040 or 1040A, or
• You checked the "No" box on line 5 of Form 1040EZ.

If you are filing a joint return, you meet this rule if:

• You checked both box 6a and box 6b on Form 1040 or 1040A, or
• You and your spouse checked the "No" box on line 5 of Form 1040EZ.

If you are not sure whether someone else can claim you (or your spouse if filing a joint return) as a dependent, get Publication 501 and read the rules for claiming a dependent.

If someone else can claim you (or your spouse if filing a joint return) as a dependent on his or her return, but does not, you still cannot claim the credit.

Example 1. Dependent of another person In 2001, you were age 25, single, and living at home with your parents. You worked and were not a student. You earned $7,500. Your parents cannot claim you as a dependent. When you file your return, you claim an exemption for yourself by checking the "No" box on line 5 of your Form 1040EZ. You meet this rule.

Example 2. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except that you earned $2,000. Your parents can claim you as a dependent but decide not to. You do not meet this rule. You cannot claim the credit because your parents could have claimed you as a dependent.

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