Unable to remove a dependent from the Client Details in Lacerte

After choosing the client in the left hand column and selecting the option to delete, the information is still showing for the dependent.

Once a dependent has been deleted, there are a few fields the program populates automatically. These won't delete, but aren't an indication the dependent is still present. When the dependent is deleted, the only information that should appear is:

• Last Name (pulls from the taxpayer in Screen 1 to reduce input)
• Months Lived at Home (defaults to 12 to reduce input)
• Type (defaults to the most common choice to reduce input)
• Earned Income Credit (defaults to when applicable)
• Child Tax Credit (defaults to when applicable)

All other information must be entered to produce a dependent on page one of the Form 1040.

If a dependent still appears on Form 1040, do the following:

1. On the Dependent Information detail screen (screen 2), add a new dependent. You only need to enter the first name.
2. Highlight the original dependent listed in the box at the left and click the Delete button.
3. Highlight the dependent that was just entered and click the Delete button.

That is the only action you need to take. If any information is edited on screen 2 (such as first name, dob, etc) you'll need to follow the steps again. If a dependent continues to show after following these steps, check for any related, residual input. These may come from one of the following screens:

• Screen 33.1, Child and Dependent Care Expenses 2441
• Screen 37, Qualified Adoption Expenses (8839)
• Screen 38.1, Education Credits / Tuition Deduction
• Screen 39.1, Health Coverage, Exemptions, & Misc.
• Screen 44, Parent's Election to Report Child's Income

If this doesn't clear the EF diagnostic about the dependent first name missing and SS # missing, re-validate and create the file. This will clear the EF diagnostic.