Dependent meaning

Dependent means relying on someone or something else for support or assistance.


Dependent definitions

Word backwards tnedneped
Part of speech The word "dependent" can be both an adjective and a noun.
Syllabic division de-pen-dent
Plural dependents
Total letters 9
Vogais (1) e
Consonants (4) d,p,n,t

Understanding Dependents

Dependents are individuals who rely on someone else for financial support, care, or other resources. This term is often used in the context of taxation, where dependents can impact the amount of taxes owed by a taxpayer.

Types of Dependents

There are two main types of dependents: qualifying children and qualifying relatives. Qualifying children are typically children or stepchildren who live with the taxpayer for more than half the year and are under a certain age. Qualifying relatives, on the other hand, can include siblings, parents, grandparents, or other relatives who rely on the taxpayer for financial support.

Claiming Dependents on Taxes

Claiming a dependent on taxes can lead to certain tax benefits, such as the Child Tax Credit or the Dependent Care Credit. To claim a dependent, the taxpayer must meet specific criteria set by the IRS, including providing more than half of the dependent's financial support.

Dependency Exemptions

Dependency exemptions are deductions that taxpayers can claim for each dependent. These exemptions can reduce the taxpayer's taxable income, ultimately lowering the amount of taxes owed. However, the rules for claiming dependency exemptions have changed in recent years, so it's essential to stay updated on the current tax laws.

Special Circumstances

There are various special circumstances when it comes to claiming dependents, such as divorced or separated parents, shared custody arrangements, or multiple individuals claiming the same dependent. In these cases, it's crucial to understand the specific rules and guidelines provided by the IRS.

Overall, understanding dependents and the rules surrounding claiming them on taxes is essential for maximizing tax benefits and avoiding potential errors or penalties. By staying informed and seeking professional advice if needed, taxpayers can navigate the complexities of dependents with confidence.


Dependent Examples

  1. Children are dependent on their parents for love and care.
  2. The success of the project is highly dependent on external funding.
  3. Sheila's elderly mother is financially dependent on her for support.
  4. The outcome of the experiment was entirely dependent on the variables chosen.
  5. Many birds are dependent on insects as their primary food source.
  6. His drug addiction made him dependent on others for survival.
  7. The country's economy is heavily dependent on tourism.
  8. Being able to drive is often seen as a sign of independence for teenagers.
  9. His mood is heavily dependent on the weather – he gets depressed on rainy days.
  10. Some plants are dependent on specific fungi for their growth and survival.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 24/06/2024 - 18:55:35