CPA needed?

[jill123]

What is the name of your state? California

My situation is that I'm recently divorced am/was the bread winner of the
marriage and provide child support to my ex who has the kids most of the time, doesn't work and has a home from the divorce settlement. I've used turbotax to do my taxes(filed as head-of-hold, claiming kids as dependents), but wonder if I should consult a CPA. This is a new situation for me regarding the filing of taxes and I just wonder if it's best for me to let an expert hand them.

 

[I AM ALWAYS LIABLE]

What is the name of your state? California

My situation is that I'm recently divorced am/was the bread winner of the
marriage and provide child support to my ex who has the kids most of the time, doesn't work and has a home from the divorce settlement. I've used turbotax to do my taxes(filed as head-of-hold, claiming kids as dependents), but wonder if I should consult a CPA. This is a new situation for me regarding the filing of taxes and I just wonder if it's best for me to let an expert hand them.

My response:

Yours is not a legal question; however, you have my permission to have a CPA compile your tax filing.

IAAL

 

[Snipes5]

If the kids did not live with you for at least 6 months of the year, you can't file HOH, you have to file Single.

You can claim the exemptions, but you need a signed form 8332 from the custodial parent.

A CPA isn't necessarily an expert in taxation, but an Enrolled Agent is more likely to be.

Snipes