How to Qualify a Grandchild for a Child Tax Credit

The child tax credit was designed to help not only parents, but anyone who is caring for a dependent family member (this includes grandparents). You can qualify your grandchild for the child tax credit if the situation meets the requirements listed below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check all the child's vital records. Your grandchild must be a U.S. citizen. The tax forms call for a social security number, which is also proof of citizenship. You should also have a copy of the birth certificate, in case of an audit.

2. Live with your grandchild for at least six months and one day out of the previous year. There are exceptions for vacation, school, work, military service or hospitalization, for instance. These exceptions are designed for not only the child's absence, but the grandparent's absence also.

3. Meet the age requirement. Grandchildren up to and including age 17 qualify for the child tax credit. The day that the child turns 18, he no longer qualifies for the tax credit.

4. Adhere to the support requirements. You must provide over half of your grandchild's financial support for the year. If the child has his own means, he cannot provide more than half of his own support for the year.

Tips & Warnings

• When you file, you must use either the 1040 or 1040A form to be able to take the child tax credit. You cannot use the credit when filing a 1040 EZ form.
• Consult a tax professional if you have any questions.
• Qualifying the child for the tax credit doesn't guarantee that you will qualify. There are income restrictions, and also limitations that depend on your tax liability. Follow the instructions for filing your return to find out what the current rules are.