How to claim your dependent(s) on a previously filed return:

A qualifying dependent can bring tax savings. If you forgot to claim yours, you might be eligible for these additional tax credits:

• Personal Exemption — up to $3,300*
• Child Tax Credit — $1,000 if your child is under 17 years of age*
• Loss of Additional Child Tax Credit
• Earned Income Credit or Child Care Credit
• Economic Stimulus Package - additional $300 for each qualifying child in tax year 2008**

If you didn't claim your dependent(s) and want to file a free amended return (IRS Form 1040X), just follow these easy instructions. Keep in mind - you'll need access to a printer.

Step 1: Save and print your original return.

1. Sign in to your account with your username and password. You'll be taken to the Main Menu.
2. Click Print next to Step 1: Prepare Federal Return.
3. This will open a PDF of your return. Follow the directions at the top of the page to first save a copy of your return to your hard drive and then print a copy of it. You'll need a copy of the original return you filed with the IRS.
4. After you saved and printed a copy of your original, filed return, close the PDF window.

Step 2: Add your missed dependents.

1. On the Main Menu, click Review next to Step 1: Federal Return.
2. This will take you to the Step 1: Federal Return page. Choose the third option, Review or edit the information I've entered so far. Click Next.
3. From the Take Me To page, click on Dependent Information under Personal Information.
4. Review and update each entry in the list of dependents by clicking Go there. Add any dependents you may not have included originally by clicking Add another Dependent.
5. Once you've updated or added dependents you may have missed, click Next. Proceed through the entire interview to ensure that you claim any credits you may have missed originally.

Step 3: Print your updated return and compare it to your original return.

1. When you've completed the interview, click the Main Menu tab at the top of the page.
2. Click Print next Step 1: Prepare Federal Return.
3. This will open a PDF of your revised return. Follow the directions at the top of the page to first save a copy of your return to your hard drive and then print a copy of it. You'll need a copy of the updated return to compare it to your original return and enter the information from both into Form 1040X.
4. After you've saved and printed a copy of your updated return, close the PDF window.

Step 4: Print IRS Form 1040X and its instructions.

1. Download Form 1040X. The instructions for 1040X will help you complete the form.
2. Follow the instructions for completing the form, including where to mail it when you're ready to file your amendment.
3. Print and attach any new forms added or forms that have changed to Form 1040X before you mail it to the IRS.