REMEMBER THAT NOT ALL TAX PREPARERS ARE EQUAL. Watch out for those who promise larger than expected refunds, charge fees based on refund percentages, or lack a PTIN. Choose a reputable professional who signs your return, provides a copy, and is available for follow-up questions. Always verify their credentials and avoid signing blank tax forms. Tax professionals play an important role in ensuring the integrity of the tax system. More than half of taxpayers who claim refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit rely on paid tax professionals to accurately file their return.
Please allow 3 to 5 business days after e-filing your 2025 tax year return before checking the status of your refund. If you mailed a return, please allow 4 weeks before checking your status.
Generally, the parent with custody of a child can claim that child on their tax return to file as head of household or claim credits.
If parents split custody 50%-50% and aren't filing a joint return, they have to decide which parent gets to claim the child. If the parents can't agree, there are tie-breaker rules. Special rules apply for the noncustodial parent to claim a child on their tax return.
Child support payments aren't deductible by the payer and aren't taxable to the payee.
IRS might audit your return and ask for information to verify your claimed dependents and credits.