Under the old rules, each tax benefit had its own definition of a child, a qualifying child and an eligible foster child. Now, the term 'Qualifying Child' is no longer benefit-specific. Unlike prior years, the new rules have one definition for all five of the child-related benefits. |
Very often, siblings will share in the support of the aging parent but will be surprised to learn that only one of them can claim the parent as a dependent. |
Walk a day in my shoes.... |
You should calculate your tax return both ways (including and not including combat pay as earned income for EITC purposes) to determine which option gives you the best result. Alternatively, combat pay is included as earned income when calculating the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. |
You won't have to worry about the stamp falling off. |