Someone Else Claimed My Child. What To Do? (2025)
Dependents & Identity Protection

Someone Else Claimed My Child. What To Do?

Duplicate dependent claims happen. Here’s the fast path to fix it, prove your eligibility, and prevent it next year.

Fix it now steps

Start here

Fix it now (step-by-step)

Source: IRS — About Form 1040-X · IRS — Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

1) Double-check for typos
  • Confirm your child’s name and SSN exactly match their Social Security card.
2) Ask the other filer to amend
  • If you know who filed (e.g., an ex or relative), ask them to submit Form 1040-X (amended return) removing the dependent. That can clear your e-file quickly.
3) File even if e-file was rejected
  • If e-file won’t go through, mail a signed paper return with W-2s/1099s attached. Use certified mail or a tracked service.
  • Tip: If you have an IRS IP PIN, the IRS may accept your e-file even after a duplicate claim.
What proof to collect

Documentation

What proof to collect

Source: IRS Publication 501 — Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information

To show the child lived with you
  • School records, medical records, daycare invoices, or lease statements listing your address.
  • Letters on official letterhead (school, doctor, landlord) confirming residency and dates.
To show your support
  • Bank/credit card statements, childcare payments, insurance, tuition and activity fees.
How the IRS resolves duplicate claims

What happens next

How the IRS resolves duplicate claims

Source: IRS — CP87A Notice (duplicate dependent) · IRS Publication 501 — Tiebreaker rules

Notices go to both filers
  • After processing begins, the IRS mails letters (like CP87A) to both parties explaining the duplicate claim and what to do next.
If neither party amends
  • The IRS may open an examination and apply the tiebreaker rules to decide who can claim the child. Be sure to answer all notices by the deadline.
If the other filer was wrong
  • They’ll have to repay any refund they received, plus applicable penalties and interest.
Protect your child's identity and your refund

Keep it from happening again

Protect your child’s identity and your refund

Source: IRS — Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) · IRS — Identity theft: dependents

Get an IRS IP PIN
  • Request a six-digit Identity Protection PIN for you and your child. The IRS won’t accept a return without the correct PIN.
File early
  • Submitting your return sooner reduces the chance someone else slips in first.
Report suspected ID theft

Need help proving eligibility or responding to the IRS?

We’ll review your facts, assemble documentation, and prepare your response packet.

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Important: This page is a general overview, not legal or tax advice. Rules and processes change. Always follow the latest IRS instructions in the notices you receive.