Tax Return for GC Father

[ssampy]

Hello All,

My father became a permanent resident in March 2012. Immediately, he left for India and came back in Sep 2012. Since then he has been living with us. He gets family pension in India but under the taxable bracket there. Should I declare him as my dependent here? Does the 183 days count after becoming a permanent resident? Thanks for your help!

 

[newacct]

No, it's just 183 days in the U.S. Even if you were an illegal immigrant, it still counts. Only times when it doesn't count is if you're an exempt individual, which is people under student visas or exchange visas.

 

[nkm-oct23]

He is considered a legal resident for tax purposes for the entire year 2012. If you declare him as your dependent, his Indian pension Iincome and any other income adds to your income and will be taxed at your higher rate. If his total income falls below the tax filing threshold, he need not file a return, or else he is required to do so. Any tax paid in India can be offset against tax liability in the US.

 

[Jackolantern]

For your father to be claimed as your dependent, he must make less than $3,800/year (including pension income), and you must provide more than half his financial support.

 

[sukhi]

For your father to be claimed as your dependent, he must make less than $3,800/year (including pension income), and you must provide more than half his financial support.

Great info, I was in impression that one can not claim parents as dependents in tax return.