This is a little confusing, so I will try to be as clear as possible.

During 2011, my Son turned 18 and moved out on his own.
Prior to this, he lived with his Mother, but was not working.
He has a daughter that was born in January.

Since his birthday, his 17-year-old girlfriend and the child both live with and depend on him.
Prior to that, the girlfriend lived with her Mother and the grandchild lived jointly between the grandmothers.

My question is about who claims who. I know his Mother had intended to claim him as her dependant, which would include EIC.
Based on what he has told me, I think his girlfriend's mother intends to claim both her and the grandchild, which also would include EIC.
I'm not claiming anyone because none involved lived with me, although I was his only source of income prior to his birthday.

So, should his Mother claim him the same as she does every year or should he file as head of household?
If he can file on his own, can he claim the girlfriend and daughter? Does he qualify for the special credits?

The 'Moms' are confusing him by telling him what he should and shouldn't do. The truth is that they are more concerned about maximizing their own returns. He asked me for advice, but I don't know what to tell him. He works hard and is taking good care of his little family with his limited resources. I just want to make sure he gets what is rightfully his.

Son 18
• Lived with Mother prior to 18th birthday (July 25 2011)
• Lives on his own (since July 25)
• Has full time job (since July 25)...student prior to that
• Has 2 dependants- 17 year old girlfriend and his daughter (born Jan 2011)...both live with him (since July 25)

Girlfriend 17
• Lived with her Mother prior to July 25 2011
• Lives with and depends on my Son since July 25

Grandchild <1
• Lived between Grandmothers prior to July 25 2011
• Lives with and depends on my Son since July 25


Any thoughts would be much appreciated.