Dependent Children Definition and Criteria Explained

Published by:
Deepa Kruse

Reviewed by:
Alistair Vigier
Last Modified: 2024-06-29
Are you looking for the definition of dependent children? A dependent child is a minor financially reliant on their parents or legal guardians for support. The definition varies by jurisdiction but is generally determined by factors such as age, income, and educational status.
A dependent child is typically considered under 18 and unmarried in most countries, although this age limit can vary. In some cases, a dependent child may be regarded as dependent until they reach age 21 or 25 if they pursue higher education.
A dependent child may also receive support from their parents for basic needs such as housing, food, clothing, and medical care. This support can come in the form of financial assistance or in-kind contributions, such as providing a place to live or paying for medical expenses. A dependent child may be considered dependent if they are unable to support themselves due to a physical or mental disability.

Dependent Children Definition
Overall, the definition of a dependent child can vary widely and is often subject to interpretation. Understanding the specific meaning of a dependent child in a given jurisdiction is essential, as it can have significant implications for tax, insurance, and other legal matters. Dependent children are children who are under 19 or over 19 but can’t take care of themselves because of illness, disability, or another reason.
Dependent children are minors who rely on their parents or guardians for financial support and basic needs. Legally, the definition can extend to children beyond the age of majority if they cannot support themselves due to disability or are pursuing full-time education.
Factors determining dependency include age, financial independence, and marital status. In legal contexts, this definition is crucial for determining eligibility for child support, tax benefits, and welfare entitlements. It is also used in immigration law to define which children can be included on a parent’s visa application.
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