If someone claims a dependent, how does it affect the filing status?

Claiming a dependent can indeed lead to a higher standard deduction amount. Taxpayers who claim dependents may be eligible for additional tax benefits, including an increased standard deduction, which can ultimately reduce the taxable income. This applies to various filing statuses, particularly for those filing as Head of Household, which has a higher standard deduction compared to the Single filing status. The presence of dependents can incentivize taxpayers to claim a different status that may offer more tax advantages.

While other options suggest changes to filing status or deductions, they do not accurately represent the impact of claiming a dependent. Thus, the ability to increase the standard deduction when claiming a dependent is key to understanding how dependent claims influence tax filing.