claiming common law deduction during implied status

[boxsurplus]

Hello, I have been living with my partner for over a year continuous (over 2 with a gap of a week) which I read qualifies us for common law for tax purposes. We filed the application for common law sponsorship last week. I (the sponsor) am about to start a new job and I need to fill out a "2016 Personal Tax Credits Return" form. Can/should I claim item 7 at the full amount since my partner is not working will not be allowed to work for at least a year. She is living with me and currently remains in Canada under implied status.

Thank you!!!

 

[Rob_TO]

Sure if your partner is not working at all and has no other world income, you'll be entitled to claim the maximum amount for spouse/common-law partner.

With CRA, you should have changed your status with them for tax purposes from 'single' to 'common-law', as of the date you reached 1 year cohabitation. This is easy to do online with CRA "my account" page.