How to Claim Yourself Independent on an Income Tax Return

The Internal Revenue Service allows taxpayers to claim nonspouse adults as dependents on their tax return if they provide the majority of financial support to the person. Dependent adults can file tax returns but not claim the personal exemption and receive a lower standard deduction. You have to file a tax return claiming your personal exemption for the IRS to classify you as independent.

• 1

  Download Form 1040 from the IRS website or call the IRS to ask for a copy.

• 2

  Complete the first section with your name, Social Security number, address and spouse information, if applicable. Check the box that corresponds to your filing status as of Dec. 31 of the previous year.

• 3

  Check Box 6a under the "Exemptions" section to claim yourself. No one else will be able to claim you as a dependent on their tax return.

• 4

  Complete the rest of the form and send it to the IRS along with payment for any taxes you owe. The IRS will process the return and send a check for any refund due in approximately six weeks.