Can I claim my foster child or adopted child as a dependent?
You can claim a foster child dependent or adopted child dependent if the child was placed with you by one of these:
- An authorized placement agency
- Judgment, decree, or other court order
You can claim an adopted child if the adoption has been legally finalized.
Adopted and foster children are treated the same as biological dependents for tax purposes.
Related Resources
If you need help handling an estate, we're here to help. Learn how to file taxes for a deceased loved one with H&R Block.
From retirement account contributions to self-employment expenses, learn more about the five most common tax deductions with the experts at H&R Block.
Getting married? Having a baby? Buying a house? Go through your life events checklist and see how each can affect your tax return with the experts at H&R Block.
Donating household goods to your favorite charity? Learn the ins and outs of deducting noncash charitable contributions on your taxes with the experts at H&R Block.