Internal Revenue Service IRS.gov
Skip To Main ContentSkip Past HeaderHome   |   Accessibility   |   Tax Stats   |   About IRS   |   Careers   |   FOIA   |   The Newsroom   |   Site Map   |   Español   |   Help

Skip to Main Content


 Advanced Search



 Tips for successful searching



Home > Frequently Asked Questions

Information for
Individuals
Businesses
Charities & Non-Profits
Government Entities
Tax Professionals
Retirement Plans



Resources
Compliance & Enforcement
Contact My Local Office
e-file
Forms and Publications
Frequently Asked Questions
Taxpayer Advocate
Where To File


Frequently Asked Tax Questions And Answers

Keyword: Joint Custody


2.3 Filing Requirements/Status/Dependents/Exemptions: Dependents & Exemptions

How do you claim a child if you agree with your ex-spouse to claim him 6 months and he claims him the other 6 months of the year?

The dependency exemption can not be split. Generally , the custodial parent is treated as the parent who provided more than half of the child's support. This parent is usually allowed to claim the exemption for the child if the other exemption tests are met. However, the noncustodial parent may be treated as the parent who provided more than half of the child's support if certain conditions are met.

The custodial parent signs a Form 8332 (PDF), Release of Claim to Exemption for Child of Divorced or Separated Parents, or a substantially similar statement, and provides it to the noncustodial parent who attaches it to has or her return. Please beware that if the custodial parent releases the exception, the custodial parent may not claim the Child Tax Credit.

Refer to Publication 501, Exemption, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information or Publication 504, Divorced or Separated Individuals, for more information on the special rule for children of divorced or separated parents.

References: