Filing a kids tax return can be done in one of two ways. Find out how to file an income tax return for your children. If you are unsure if you need to file a kids tax return, review When Do Kids Need to File Taxes?
Attach a Kids Tax Return to Your Return:
You can attach Form 8814 to your return to file a kids tax return if your child meets the following conditions:
- His only income comes from interest and dividends.
- He is under age 19 (or a full time student under 24).
- His income for 2009 is less than $9,500.
File an Individual Kids Tax Return:
When your child doesn't meet the requirements above, you can file an individual kids tax return. Your child can file a simple return for free at CompleteTax.
Other Considerations:
Even though you may be able to attach a kids tax return to your own, you might not want to. The final result could be higher taxes on qualified dividends or capital gains than filing an individual kids tax return.
Kids Tax Rate:
It's possible that part of your child's income will be taxed at your tax rate. When this happens, your kids are subject to the kiddie tax.
