Legal Definitions - lawful dependent

Definition: A lawful dependent is a person who relies on another person for financial support and meets certain criteria set by the government to qualify for tax and other benefits.

For example, a child under the age of 19 (or 24 if a full-time student) who lives with their parents and is financially supported by them is considered a lawful dependent. Similarly, a spouse who has little or no income and is supported by their partner may also be considered a lawful dependent.

These examples illustrate how a person can be considered a lawful dependent if they meet the criteria set by the government. Being a lawful dependent can provide tax benefits and other forms of support to both the dependent and the person providing financial support.