Which status (single v.s. head of household) should I file for 2006?

I'm a single with income in the 30K-74K bracket per IRS 2006 table. However, I sponsored my mom to CA in Aprial and currently supporting her financially. Which status should I file under, single or head of household? Head of household seem to pay more per the IRS table. If I should file as single, can I claim her as dependent since I'm supporting her? Please offer my your advice. Thanks for your time.

Which status (single v.s. head of household) should I file for 2006?
You may only claim your mother as a dependent, if you provide for more than half her support. She does not have to live with you, but must be in an assisted living or rest home, to file as head of household. Head of household is preferable to single filing status because of the exemptions and deductions to your income.





The 10% bracket is larger for HoH than single. And the 15% bracket extends further for HoH over single. You should end up paying a lot less in taxes.
Reply:You can't file head of household unless she is living with you, but you can claim her as a dependent.
Reply:If you're eligible for head of household, you'll pay less taxes that way than filing as single.





If you're mom qualifies as your dependent, you can claim her and file h of h - a parent who is a dependent doesn't have to live with you to be able to claim h of h, like other dependents do.