How are dependents typically claimed on a tax return?

Dependents are typically claimed on a tax return by listing their Social Security numbers and ensuring that they meet specific IRS requirements. The IRS sets these criteria to determine who qualifies as a dependent, including relationship, age, residency, and financial support thresholds. Providing their Social Security numbers is essential because it helps the IRS verify the identity of the dependents being claimed, ensuring that there are no duplicate claims for the same individual.

This process helps maintain the integrity of the tax system and allows taxpayers to take advantage of tax benefits, such as exemptions or credits associated with dependents. The other options do not align with IRS requirements; including birth certificates is not a necessary or accepted method for claiming a dependent, and simply entering personal details without verification does not satisfy IRS protocols. Additionally, using only names and ages does not provide the necessary verification that the dependents meet the qualifying criteria set by the IRS. Thus, listing Social Security numbers along with meeting the IRS requirements is the correct way to claim dependents on a tax return.