From: Missouri

Dear TaxMama,

My wife and I traveled to CA, from Missouri, to pick up our household items stored in a rented storage unit.

On our return, we brought with us two of our grand- daughters, who lived with us for 7 months last year.

Can we take the trip to retrieve our household furniture off on our taxes?

Also can we take the two granddaughter on as dependents for the 7 months, as we were their sole support during this period?

Thank you.

Mel

 

 

Dear Mel,

Sorry, I can't see any reason why your travel expenses would be deductible. You're already living in MO. You're not moving from CA to MO for employment purposes....nope...can't see it.

Now, as to your grandchildren....

Are their parents claiming them on their tax returns? If they are, you're going to have a battle. Do you have legal custody?

Technically, since you provided the roof over their heads and were their sole support for over half the year, you fit the definitions and guidelines.

And you would win a battle with IRS.

Of course, if you're sure no one else is claiming them, you won't even have a battle at all.

Though it's always easier to check with the parents to see what they're putting on their tax returns before you file yours.

Best wishes,
Eva Rosenberg, MBA, EA