IRS Logo
Print

Tax Information for Parents

Did you know that there are events in life that may have a significant tax impact?
Many times we experience significant life events that have a tax impact too! This page is designed to help you while explaining to taxpayers the tax impact of these events.

Credits
Taxpayers should consider claiming tax credits for which they might be eligible when completing their federal income tax returns, advises the IRS. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of taxes owed. Some credits are refundable – taxes could be reduced to the point that a taxpayer would receive a refund rather than owing any taxes.

Child and Dependent Care Information
If you paid someone to care for a child or a dependent so you could work, you may be able to reduce your federal income tax by claiming the credit for child and dependent care expenses on your tax return.

Child Tax Credit
This credit is for people who have a qualifying child. It can be claimed in addition to the credit for child and dependent care expenses

Education Credits
Education tax credits can help offset those costs. The American Opportunity Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit are education credits you can subtract in full from your federal income tax, not just deduct from your taxable income.

EITC Home Page--It’s easier than ever to find out if you qualify for EITC
Earned Income Tax Credit also known as EITC or EIC is a tax credit for people who have low to moderate earned income. The earned income can be from working for your employer, yourself or from other sources such as certain disability income.

IRS Withholding Calculator
This easy-to-use calculator can help you figure your Federal income tax withholding so your employer can withhold the correct amount from your pay. This is particularly helpful if you've had too much or too little withheld in the past, your situation has changed, or you are starting a new job.

Should I itemize?
You should itemize deductions if your total deductions are more than the standard deductions amount. Also, you should itemize if you do not qualify for the standard deduction.

Where's My Refund - It's Quick, Easy, and Secure.
Get the most common IRS question answered... Where's My Refund? Secure access anytime from anywhere.

Where to File Paper Tax Returns - With or Without a Payment
Filing addresses for businesses, tax professionals and individual taxpayers for use during calendar year 2011.

Free Tax Return Preparation for You by Volunteers
IRS-certified volunteers provide free tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for persons with low-to-moderate income and through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program for persons age 60 and older.

Authorized IRS e-file Providers for Individuals
Locate the closest Authorized IRS e-file Providers in your area where you can electronically file your tax return.

Filing Late and/or Paying Late
Before you decide not to file your tax return on time or not pay all of your taxes when they are due, consider this.

Points to Keep in Mind When Choosing A Tax Preparer
Tax Tip 2011-06, January 10, 2011

Tax Guide Available
It's "Pub 17" and it's a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for tax season.

Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter
We realize that receiving a notice or letter from the IRS can be unnerving, but if you follow these simple steps, the process to resolving the discrepancy should be straight forward.

Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number
Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
ITIN is a tax processing number that became available July 1, 1996, for certain nonresident and resident aliens, their spouse and dependents. The ITIN is only available to individuals who cannot get a social security number (SSN).

More Assistance For Individual Taxpayers
More tax assistance for individual taxpayers.

Publication 501, Exemptions, Standard Deductions, and Filing Information

Tax Relief in Disaster Situations
Find information on the most recent tax relief provisions for taxpayers affected by disaster situations.

Taxpayer Rights
This is your one-stop shop for taxpayer rights information.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Indian Tribal Governments
General information about subjects of interest to tribal governments.

Who May Use The Taxpayer Advocate Service?
If you are experiencing economic harm or seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through normal channels, you may be eligible for Taxpayer Advocate Service assistance.

Page Last Reviewed or Updated: 2012-10-10