How much money can a child make and still be claimed as a dependent?
Isabella Little
Updated on May 12, 2026
Do they make less than $4,300 in 2020 or 2021? Your relative can't have a gross income of more than $4,300 in 2020 or 2021 and be claimed by you as a dependent.
How much can my dependent child earn in 2021 and still be claimed?
Earned Income OnlyA child who has only earned income must file a return only if the total is more than the standard deduction for the year. For 2021, the standard deduction for a dependent child is total earned income plus $350, up to a maximum of $12,550. So, a child can earn up to $12,550 without paying income tax.