claiming as dependent disabled mother with no legal disability

[SamfromCayman]

My mother (50) is not working for 2+ years due to health problems. She lives off her savings which will be soon gone. Can I claim her as a dependent on my tax return if I meet all publ. 501 requirements . She doesn't live with me. In short,can I claim her as a dependent while she still has some savings left.

 

[Eekamouse]

Doesn't sound like you've been supporting her. Why would you think you are entitled to claim her on your taxes?

 

[SamfromCayman]

Because I do,pay more than half of her expenses.

 

[LdiJ]

Because I do,pay more than half of her expenses.

If you really do pay more than half her expenses, and she has no income, then she doesn't need to be disabled in order for you to claim her as a dependent, even though she doesn't live in your home. However, you had best be able to prove that you pay more than half of her expenses. Also, if you are not married, don't get the idea that you can use her to claim head of household status rather than single, because that you CANNOT do.

 

[SamfromCayman]

Thank you. I pay her rent by depositing money into her bank account.

But how about this? Special rule for parent.
If your qualifying person is your father or mother, you may be eligible to file as head of household even if your father or mother does not live with you. However, you must be able to claim an exemption for your father or mother. Also, you must pay more than half the cost of keeping up a home that was the main home for the entire year for your father or mother.

 

[davew128]

If you really do pay more than half her expenses, and she has no income, then she doesn't need to be disabled in order for you to claim her as a dependent, even though she doesn't live in your home. However, you had best be able to prove that you pay more than half of her expenses. Also, if you are not married, don't get the idea that you can use her to claim head of household status rather than single, because that you CANNOT do.

Well, actually the OP can do just that. See IRC 2(b)(1)(B).

 

[LdiJ]

Well, actually the OP can do just that. See IRC 2(b)(1)(B).

Yeah...I erred on that part.

 

[SamfromCayman]

Yeah...I erred on that part.

Thank you for your help.