Ask The Taxgirl: Deceased Child

Taxpayer asks:

This last year I had a son born who only survived 1 day. Do I need to get a Social Security number for him? Do I claim him as a dependant?

Taxgirl says:

Gosh, I honestly can’t imagine how difficult this is for you and your family. My sympathies and thoughts are with you and your family.

I do have a bit of good news for you. You can claim your son on your tax return and you do not have to get a Social Security number for him. You just need to attach a copy of his birth certificate, death certificate, or hospital records to your tax return. Then, write “DIED” in column (2) of line 6c of your Form 1040.

Again, my sympathies. I sincerely wish you some joy in 2010.

Before you go: be sure to read my disclaimer. Remember, I’m a lawyer and we love disclaimers.
If you have a question, here’s how to Ask The Taxgirl.

Kelly Phillips Erb

Kelly Phillips Erb, known as Taxgirl, is a tax attorney, writer, and speaker who explains tax news, IRS updates, scams, financial crime, and money in plain English.

See Full Bio