Family travel is no child’s play, especially when taking a plane. Traveling with an infant takes trip planning to a whole new level. What do you do with your stroller, car seat and diaper bag? And don’t forget all the necessary travel documents.
If you’re traveling with United Airlines, we’ve got the details for how to book an infant’s ticket, what kind of baggage allowance you get and even which aircraft have changing tables.
United Airlines infant policy
If your child is under the age of two (but older than seven days old), he or she can sit on a parent’s lap on flights to any destination. However, the cost varies by destination:
U.S. domestic flights (including flights to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands): free, no ticket required.
Flights between the U.S., Canada and Mexico: ticket is required, and you pay only taxes.
International flights (including flights to Guam): ticket is required and charged a partial fare based on the destination.
If you’re flying in United Polaris business class or in economy on select routes, United will provide free bassinets. To request one ahead of your flight, contact United customer service.
If you decide to pay for an infant’s seat, you must bring an approved car seat — as all passengers must be in their seats during takeoff, landing and turbulence. Additionally, children flying in car seats must be in a window seat, and the car seat must be secured to the aircraft seat.
Look for car seats made after 1985, as these are Federal Aviation Administration-approved — and will have a certificate attached to them stating as much. Keep in mind that car seats aren’t allowed in Polaris business class on most Boeing 767, Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 aircraft.
Do I have to pay for an infant’s seat when flying United?
As mentioned above, you don’t have to purchase a seat for a child under two if you keep them in your lap for the duration of the flight. However, some situations require you to book a seat for your child.
You book a round-trip flight, and your child turns two before the return segment of the itinerary.
You’re an adult traveling with two children under the age of two. You must purchase at least one seat for an infant because you can’t hold more than one child in your lap.
How much will I pay for a lap infant’s ticket on an international itinerary?
The lap infant fare varies based on destination. For example, we’ve looked up a round-trip flight from Newark to Frankfurt in economy class for two adults and one lap infant. The total came to $1,113 per adult, including taxes and fees, and $118 for the lap infant, including taxes and fees. A lap infant’s ticket costs just a fraction of the price of an adult ticket.
When it comes to tickets booked with United MileagePlus miles, you’ll pay 10% of the revenue fare, which includes travel on United as well as on partner airlines. The lap infant fee is capped at $250, which comes in handy if you’re booking a pricey business-class ticket for the parent.
United Airlines stroller policy, carry-on allowance when traveling with an infant
In addition to a regular United carry-on allowance, you may bring the following items onboard when traveling with an infant:
Diaper bag.
Breast pump, milk or formula.
FAA-approved car seat.
Compact folding stroller (must be under standard carry-on limits).
At the airport, you may use standard strollers, folding wagons and car seats to get to your gate and check them for free at the gate.
If you’re nursing, you can breastfeed or pump from your seat or bathroom. You’re also allowed to bring ice to keep the milk and formula cold in the cabin. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to store breastmilk in the onboard fridges, so plan ahead.
Do United planes have changing tables?
The following aircraft feature changing tables in lavatories:
Boeing 757-300.
Boeing 767.
Boeing 777.
Boeing 787.
Select Boeing 757-200.
United Airlines family boarding
Anyone flying with children two or younger qualifies for pre-boarding on United planes. Pre-boarding is the first boarding group and also includes the following travelers:
Customers with disabilities.
Unaccompanied minors.
Active members of the military.
Global Services and Premier 1K elites.
How to book a ticket for a lap infant on United
To book an infant’s ticket on United, go to United.com and input your search parameters, including origin city and destination, travel dates and whether you need a round-trip or a one-way ticket.
Under “Travelers,” you’ll be able to select the number of passengers. If you want to buy a ticket with a seat for your child under two, select “Infants (Under 2).” If you don’t want to purchase a ticket, select “Infants on lap.”
If you’re booking an international trip, make sure your child has a valid passport. For domestic travel, a birth certificate should be enough.
Can I sit together with my child on United?
Parents on a budget might be inclined to book basic economy tickets, which normally don’t include a complimentary seat selection. However, thanks to United’s recent policy, families flying with children under 12 can sit together for free.
So, if you’ve compromised between cost and comfort and purchased a separate seat for your child under two, you can skip paying for seat selection, even on a basic economy fare.
United Airlines infant policy recapped
Although you don’t have to get a ticket for a lap infant when flying on domestic flights, you need to get one when flying internationally. Luckily, it won’t cost you as much as a full fare, so you can save some money until your child turns two. After that, your kid will require his or her own seat.
United also offers some great perks for parents traveling with infants, such as priority family boarding, extra carry-on and checked luggage allowance, and free seat selection, even on basic economy fares.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Inside: Do you want to claim your partner as a dependent on your taxes? This guide will explain the rules of claiming dependents whether girlfriend or boyfriend and help you take the necessary steps to do so.
Navigating the waters of tax credits can be tricky, especially when it involves claiming an unmarried partner as a dependent.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does permit the declaration of a non-relative adult as a dependent, provided certain conditions are met.
And that is where it gets tricky for the tax novice.
That is where we are going to reference the IRS guidance, so you can determine whether or not you qualify for this deduction.
By pointing you in the right direction, you can understand the specific tests and requirements to avoid any tax-related complications.
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Understanding dependency in the context of taxes
The word “dependent” might remind you of a newborn baby or an elderly family member. But in tax terms, the meaning broadens.
In the IRS terms, a “dependent is a person, other than the taxpayer or spouse, who entitles the taxpayer to claim a dependency exemption.” 1
This might be a child, an adult family member, a significant other, or even a close friend. This term “qualifying relative” is crucial in IRS parlance for its implications on your tax dues.
Typically, any person can qualify as a dependent if more than half of their financial support, including living and medical expenses, is taken care of. Also, it’s an opportunity to boost one’s tax return by up to $500 with the Other Dependent Tax Credit.
What qualifies a person as a dependent?
The IRS bases dependents on two categories: “Qualifying children” and “Qualifying relatives.”2 You might think of a qualifying child as your son or daughter. Expanding the scope, a qualifying relative can be a sibling, a parent, or even a significant other.
The essence lies in their financial reliance on you and the nature of your relationship. They ought to:
Be related to you via blood, marriage, or adoption;
You provide over 50% of their financial support including housing, food, medical care, and other expenses
They are U.S. citizen.
The income of the possible dependent.
These nuanced rules might sound overwhelming, but IRS guidance and tax experts like TurboTax can help lighten the load.
Now, let’s address this sticking point: Can you actually claim your partner as a dependent? The following section unravels the mystique.
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Can I Claim My Partner as a Dependent?
You can claim your partner as a dependent on your tax return, provided they meet certain criteria explained by the IRS, including passing the non-qualifying child test, the citizen or resident test, the joint return test, the income test, and the dependent taxpayer test.
I know this is where it gets difficult to follow for the average person.
So, we are here, to break this terminology down into layman’s terms, as such you can then make the best decision for your tax situation.
If you are still confused, then consult with an online tax software like TurboTax or a tax professional for guidance on your personal taxes.
Basic requirements for claiming your partner as a dependent
This essentially means that your partner should be financially dependent on you, where you bear more than half of their living expenses.
In essence, claiming your partner as a dependent revolves around these fundamentals: 2
Residency: Your partner must have been living with you for the full tax year.
Income limit: Your partner’s gross income should not exceed $4,700 for the year 2023.
Support Requirement: You are the main pillar for your partner’s financial needs by covering over half of their total expenses.
Anyone Else Claiming Them: None else should claim your partner as their dependent.
Unmarried. Your partner must be unmarried legally.
All fulfillment of these criteria moves you a step closer to enjoying some tax relief.
Confirm with an accountant or tax expert as exceptions can exist, such as temporary absences due to illness, education, business, and others.
Common scenarios where you can claim your partner as a dependent
Claiming a partner as a dependent isn’t as fancy as it sounds, but it’s plausible. Here are common scenarios enabling you to do so:
Co-habiting Before Marriage: You and your partner share a home, and you pay more than half of your partner’s living costs. However, your living situation cannot violate local laws, as in some states, “cohabitation” by unmarried people is against the law.
Unemployed Partner: Your partner’s tie with working life is severed (e.g., due to health issues or being laid off), and you bear most of the living expenses.
Supporting Student Partner: Your partner pursues their education, and you shoulder the majority of their expenses.
Take this interactive IRS quiz to determine whom I may claim as a dependent.
How much will I get if I claim my girlfriend as a dependent?
Now the pivotal question: what’s the advantage in dollars and cents?
In essence, claiming your partner as a dependent will slash your taxable income by $500 with the Other Dependent Tax Credit. 3
If you already qualify for Head of Household status with another dependent, then it is possible your deduction may be more. 4
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. When tax complexities strike, consult an expert!
Is it better to claim my girlfriend as a dependent?
Honestly, like most tax questions, the answer is: it depends.
If you’re covering your partner’s majority expenses and they’re fulfilling all IRS criteria, then claiming them can bring solid tax savings.
Yet, bear in mind:
If your partner earns substantial income (greater than $4,700), they might lose personal benefits by becoming your dependent.
By claiming your partner, their Social Security or medical benefits may take a hit.
So, assess your partner’s income, benefit entitlements, and your tax situation. Then, tread wisely.
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Important Rules to Keep in Mind When Claiming Your Partner
When filing taxes, it’s crucial to understand that both parties are responsible for the accuracy of each other’s tax reporting and liability.
It’s worth noting that tax advantages and disadvantages exist in the scenario of being married and filing jointly, such as potential reductions in your tax bracket and sharing of business losses. So, it may be something to consider.
Can I claim my girlfriend as a dependent if she has no income?
In a nutshell, yes! If your girlfriend had no income in the tax year, you might claim her as a dependent. Given you provide over half of her total support and she lived with you all year, you’re golden.
For 2023, your partner’s gross income should not exceed $4,700.
However, keep in mind that in cases where public assistance or Social Security benefits are her primary financial sources, claiming her could negatively impact those benefits.
Learn the answer to do you have to file taxes if you have no income.
Remember: tax waters are often murky. When in doubt, lean on a tax professional’s shoulder!
Support factors
Answering the support question plays a hefty role in determining who qualifies as a dependent.
You shouldn’t just share the living cost; you should pay more than half of it. Remember, it includes an array of expenses, like food, clothing, education, or medical expenses.
The implication of your partner being claimed by someone else
Here’s a key rule: if someone else is claiming your partner as a dependent, you’re out of the game. The IRS rules say a person can be claimed as a dependent by only one taxpayer in a single tax year.
This could happen if your partner perhaps lives part of the year with someone else like a parent.
Another possibility is if your partner is legally married still, then they would have to file a married, filing separately return.
So, if your partner qualifies as someone else’s dependent, even if they don’t claim them, you can’t claim your partner.
Frequent Situations Where You Can’t Claim Your Partner as a Dependent
Considerations for Non-resident or Non-citizen partners
If your partner isn’t a U.S. citizen, resident, or national, the dependent claiming game changes. Notably, nonresident aliens cannot be claimed as dependents.
However, if your partner is a resident of Canada or Mexico or a U.S. national, you may claim them. But they should be living with you full-time. 2
This rule extends to partners awaiting changes in their residency or citizenship status. In such cases, you must wait until their status changes before claiming them.
When your partner earns more than the stipulated income threshold
When your partner’s income level sails past the IRS limit ($4,700 in 2023), claiming them as a dependent slips off the table. 2
Any part-time job, seasonal work, or income source counts, even those seemingly negligible. As soon as they cross this threshold, regardless of how heavily they rely on you or where they reside, they can’t qualify as your dependent.
Make sure to stay updated on IRS rules. They adjust the income limit for inflation annually, which changes this income ceiling. Keep an eye peeled for those IRS updates!
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This is how I have filed my personal taxes for many years.
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How to Officially Claim Your Partner on Your Taxes
To officially claim your partner as a dependent on your tax return, you will do this when you file your taxes.
Thankfully, this is made easier with online software companies like TurboTax or H&R Block.
The same is true when you are trying to figure out how to file taxes without a W2.
Necessary steps to claim your partner on your taxes
You will first identify them as “other qualifying dependent” or “other qualifying relative”.
Gather the facts first: Confirm your partner’s income, residency, and who has been supporting them for more than half the year.
Document expenses: Keep track of all relevant bills and receipts to demonstrate your majority support.
Use tax software or a professional: Follow prompts about dependents in tax software like TurboTax. They could guide you through the process and specifics.
Complete relevant Tax Forms: Prepare the necessary forms such as Form 1040 and Schedule H and have proof of residency, financial support, gross income information, and certification of your domestic partnership to support your claim.
File your return: Don’t forget to include your partner’s details and tick the correct boxes.
Remember, the devil is in the details. So carefully evaluate your situation to avoid missteps, and consult with a tax professional when in doubt.
Pitfalls to avoid while filing tax returns
While preparing to file your tax returns, beware of these common pitfalls:
Incorrect income calculation: Ensure you tally your partner’s gross income accurately. Reminder: it should not eclipse $4,700 in 2023.
Overlooked Living Qualification: Your partner must have resided with you the entire year. Temporary absences (illness, education) can be exceptions.
Ignoring Other Claimants: If someone else is poised to claim your partner as a dependent – even if they don’t – you can’t claim them.
Emergency Funds Consideration: If your partner taps into their savings for a large expense, this could speak against you providing most of their support.
Forgotten Documents: Maintain a record of bills, receipts, and other expense documents.
The IRS overlooks no mistakes, so take care and stay informed. When in doubt, professional tax help is a button away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Intriguing question! Here’s the short answer: Your partner’s marital status may indeed affect your ability to claim them as a dependent.
For instance, if your partner is married and files a joint tax return with their spouse, you can’t claim them as a dependent.
Remember, tax rules are lock-key specific, and bending them can lead to penalties. Always seek advice from a tax professional.
While you might be able to claim your partner as a dependent, laying claim on their children as dependents is unlikely. IRS rules are clear: you can claim a dependent only if they’re your child or relative.
Since your partner’s children don’t fulfill this requirement, you can’t claim them unless they can be considered your qualifying relative AND you provide more than half of their support.
As always, it’s best to run this by a tax professional for clarity on your unique situation. All we tax-seers can do is guide; the decision falls on your shoulders.
Here’s the hard truth: if your partner didn’t live with you all year, you couldn’t claim them as a dependent. IRS rules are stringent about this: your partner must have the same home as you for the entire year. That is 365 days, no less.
However, IRS grants a green light to temporary separations due to special circumstances like illness, education, military service, or even a holiday. The key lies in their intent to return and, of course, their follow-through.
Stay wise and stay informed, and consult with a tax analyst to seal your decision with assurance.
Get Online Help
Navigating tax rules and regulations doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the advent of online help, understanding whether you can claim your partner as a dependent becomes considerably more manageable. Here are a few benefits of seeking online help:
Convenience: With online help, you can access the information you need anywhere, anytime. No need to schedule appointments or deal with traffic to get to a tax office. You can get the updates and instructions right from the comfort of your own home.
Accessibility: Some great examples of accessible platforms are TurboTax, e-File, and H&R Block which provide 24/7 support and resources. They offer a wealth of information and experts at your fingertips.
Expertise: Apart from the convenience, these websites employ tax experts who deliver professional analysis and guidance tailored to your specific needs. Specifically, you can use TurboTax Live Full Service for someone to do your taxes from start to finish. Or you can ask questions with TurboTax Live Assisted.
File your own taxes with confidence using TurboTax. This can greatly simplify the process and minimize potential missteps.
Now, Can I Claim my Unmarried Partner as a Dependent is Up to You
As they say, “Ignorance of the law is no excuse”. The same holds true for tax rules.
Falsely claiming a dependent can lead to severe penalties, not just a dinging of your wallet. You’d be sailing the choppy waters of tax evasion, which can bring on hefty fines or even dark days behind bars.
In blatant cases, the IRS could impose a Civil Fraud Penalty. That means a penalty amounting to 75% of the unpaid tax amount resulting from fraud. 5
In short, play by the rules! Accurate and clear tax filing may seem tedious, yet it will steer clear of any legal trouble. Remember, it’s always safer to ask if you are unsure!
Now, are you wondering why do I owe taxes this year?
Source
Internal Revenue Service. “Tax Tutorial.” https://apps.irs.gov/app/understandingTaxes/hows/tax_tutorials/mod04/tt_mod04_glossary.jsp?backPage=tt_mod04_01.jsp#dependent. Accessed October 23, 2023.
Internal Revenue Service. “About Publication 501, Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information.” https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-501. Accessed October 23, 2023.
Internal Revenue Service. “About Publication 501, Dependents, Standard DeductionUnderstanding the Credit for Other Dependents.” https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/understanding-the-credit-for-other-dependents. Accessed October 23, 2023.
Intuit TurboTax. “Guide to Filing Taxes as Head of Household.” https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/family/guide-to-filing-taxes-as-head-of-household/L4Nx6DYu9. Accessed October 23, 2023.
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With its constant ebbs and flows, real estate demands impeccable timing. There is an intricate art of balancing property transactions, especially in a buyer’s market where there are many opportunities, but with that comes significant risks. Buyers find themselves hesitant, fearing the financial burden of potentially owning two properties, if they can’t sell their current property quickly enough. However, there exists a little-known yet powerful tool: the Sale of Purchaser Property clause, the ace up your sleeve as a buyer in today’s market.
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This strategic provision offers a safeguard against the dual-ownership dilemma, allowing buyers to seize the advantages of a buyer’s market without being shackled by the burden of holding two properties simultaneously. By understanding and effectively utilizing this clause, savvy buyers can navigate the real estate landscape with peace of mind, capitalizing on current market conditions and a favorable upside when playing the long game.
The Power of the Sale of Purchaser Property Clause
A Sale of Purchaser Property clause is a condition the buyer agent includes in the purchase and sale agreement when putting an offer on a home. This clause makes the sale of the new property contingent upon the successful sale of the buyer’s current property.
As a buyer, you essentially get to say: “I’ll buy your property, but only if I can sell my current one first.” The deal may fall through if the buyer’s property doesn’t sell within a specified period, making the new property conditional until the other sale has a firm contract in place. If the buyer successfully sells their property during the conditional period, the condition is waived, and the new home is now also considered legally sold with a binding contract. If you’ve exhausted all options trying to sell your property during that time period, the deal on the property is now void, and the buyer gets their deposit back.
Many buyers and sellers might be more familiar with the terminology of an escape clause; is this any different? An escape clause is included in a purchase agreement so that a seller can continue to market their property and accept new offers from potential buyers even after accepting an offer from a primary buyer. It provides the seller a way to “escape” from the contract if a better offer comes along within a specified time frame. The key difference is that an escape clause primarily benefits the seller. A Sale of Purchaser Property clause benefits the buyer, making their purchase contingent on successfully selling their own property.
Tips for Sellers
Talk to your real estate agent about the escape clause. This allows you to continue to market the property and be aware of further changes in the market (price, interest rates). It’s best to have a short conditional period allowing the buyer to sell their home.
Tips for Buyers
If the inclusion of this clause still keeps you up at night with the concern of owning two properties, you can always consider selling your home first. Typically, in a seller’s market, it takes many unsuccessful offers before firming up on the right home, sometimes taking weeks or even months. However, you can always take your time and work at a pace that is best for you. Take the time to find the right buyer for your property, and include a longer closing period so you have the time you need to find your next home.
With many properties sitting on the market and inventory building up, sellers are feeling the pressure and are eagerly waiting for any offer to be presented. Some stand-out properties are still moving quickly, while others are taking much longer to sell, creating circumstances that favour buyers.
Knowing this condition exists, buyers shouldn’t be afraid to make an offer. If you’re on the fence about a property, the SPP clause gives you security that your purchase can only firm up if you sell your current home. Give us a call today to speak to a real estate agent in your area.
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