Question

Are there limits to the number of dependents I can claim without the IRS red-flagging my return for an audit?

Answer

The IRS doesn’t disclose the criteria it uses for the selection of returns that it chooses to audit. You do have the right to claim any person who’s legally your dependent under either of these tests:

  • Qualifying child
  • Qualifying relative

If you can prove the person was your dependent, then there are no limitations to the number of dependents you can claim to the IRS.

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