Can I claim my parents as dependents if they come to live with me?

May 5, 2003

Subject:  Parents as dependants
From:  Kuymar
Date:  Tue, 15 Apr 2003

Hi,

While searching the web, I came across your responses to the queries of two individuals. My question is somewhat similar. I am a citizen of this country. My parents live in India. I want them to come and live with me here in the US. They have no income other than rental property. Yearly income from these rents comes to under $2,000.00.

If they come on visitor visas, as their applications to become permanent residents is in process, can I claim them as dependents? I expect them to become permanent residents within 6 months.

Thanks much.

Kumar

Answer

Date:  30 Apr 2003

In order to qualify as a dependent, your parents must be residents of the United States by the end of the year. (I don't think a visitor's visa will qualify.) You must also provide more than one-half of their support. They may not file a joint income tax return.

Good luck!
Mike Gray

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