How do I add dependents into DEERs?

2020-08-22T14:37:04-04:00

Running into an issue with the family back at home. Came to the decision that it'll be much easier to add them as my dependents since I've been providing them financially since the pandemic. How would I go about this? I'm aware for married personnel it might be easier, but i don't fall into this category. Any advice would be appreciated.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2020 5:49 PM

2020-08-22T17:49:34-04:00

Keep in mind, family members you add has to be physically unable to do anything for themselves. Helping family out is far different than them not physically capable of working. If you choose to help out but they are capable of working, you won’t be able to claim them as a dependent. No disrespect, don’t get caught up in trying to help everyone out and forget that you are your own responsibility (speaking from experience).

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2020 8:36 PM

2020-08-22T20:36:49-04:00

You need to be providing more than 50% of their financial upkeep for a significant amount of time to legally claim these people as your dependents. That means they don’t work and can’t work, and you pay more than half of all their bills, housing, and food. Generally speaking, if you can’t claim them as a dependent for tax purposes, you can’t claim them as a dependent in the military

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2020 8:06 AM

2020-08-23T08:06:39-04:00

As others have said if can’t claim them as dependents legally on your taxes then you’re not going to be able to add them as dependents in DEERS.

Don’t jeopardize your credit and your career (poor credit and significant debt can get that security clearance revoked) trying to help others. I know it sounds selfish, but you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others.