How many children can you claim on your taxes

Question

We have three boys and twins on the way. We were just wondering what the maximum number is that can be claimed. Not looking for the EIC - we know that is two - but we are trying to resolve a discussion we were having with a friend. Thanks for any help!!

Answer 1

Sure, you can claim 5.

You will get exemptions for all and child tax credit for all the children under 17. However, EIC will not increase.  

Answer 2

You can claim as many as you have who meet the rules to be claimed as dependents.  If the twins are born in 2008 then you can claim them for 2008.

If you don't owe enough tax to get the full child tax credit, be sure to check on the additional child tax credit.

Many people confuse the limit of 2 for EIC with how many you can claim as dependents.

Answer 3

1.  You attach statements to the form 1040A or 1040 once you have more than 4 children.  (List the youngest ones first.)

2.  While you can list as many children as you have, at some point you will see no difference in your refund when you add one more.  This is due to caps on EIC (2 children), Additional Child Tax Credit (based on income) and AMT (where you get no deduction for dependents).

Answer 4

You can claim the 3 that our born already. If they twins come before dec 31 2008 then you can claim them as well

Answer 5

as many as you have.  However you have to use a different form if you have more than 6.