How to File Head-of-Household Taxes
Complete guide to claiming HOH status and maximizing your tax savings
Step-by-Step Filing Process
Confirm Your Eligibility
Before filing as Head-of-Household, verify you meet all three IRS requirements:
- ✓ You are unmarried or considered unmarried on December 31st
- ✓ You paid more than half the cost of maintaining a home
- ✓ A qualifying person lived with you for more than half the year
Gather Required Documents
You will need:
Choose Your Filing Method
Tax Software
TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct guide you through HOH qualification
IRS Free File
Free if AGI under $79,000 (2025)
Tax Professional
CPA or enrolled agent for complex situations
Complete Form 1040
On Form 1040, check the Head of household box in the Filing Status section (top of page 1).
Enter your qualifying person's name in the space provided. This is typically your child or parent.
Important: The IRS may request proof of HOH status. Keep records showing you paid more than half the household costs and that your qualifying person lived with you.
Claim Your Standard Deduction
The HOH standard deduction for 2025 is $22,500.
This automatically reduces your taxable income. Only itemize if your mortgage interest, property taxes, and charitable donations exceed $22,500.
Claim Tax Credits
As an HOH filer with dependents, you likely qualify for:
- Child Tax Credit: $2,000 per child under 17 (Schedule 8812)
- Earned Income Credit: Up to $7,830 for 3+ children (Schedule EIC)
- Child & Dependent Care Credit: Up to $3,000 for childcare expenses (Form 2441)
File by the Deadline
The 2025 tax deadline is April 15, 2026. File early to:
- • Get your refund faster
- • Avoid identity theft (fraudsters cannot file in your name)
- • Have more time to pay if you owe taxes
Common Filing Mistakes
- Filing HOH when married: You cannot file HOH if you are married filing jointly. Only separated or considered unmarried individuals qualify.
- Not keeping household expense records: The IRS may audit your return. Keep rent receipts, utility bills, and grocery records.
- Claiming non-qualifying dependents: Your qualifying person must meet specific IRS tests. A boyfriend/girlfriend typically does not qualify.
- Missing out on credits: Many HOH filers forget to claim the Child Tax Credit, EITC, or Child & Dependent Care Credit.
Calculate Your HOH Taxes Now
See exactly how much you will owe or get refunded