Ashley is 17 years old and is about to move into South University's freshman dorms. She gets a bill from the college stating she owes money on her dorm bill, and this bill must be paid before she moves in. She contacts her divorced parents, but they can't decide who will pay the bill. She decides to apply for financial aid. After reviewing her application, the financial aid advisor suggests she declare herself independent from her parents. She comes to you for advice.
Can a dependency exemption be applied in Ashley's situation? Why? What are the consequences of her alternatives relative to her filing status and support consideration?
If Ashley worked in the school library, under what circumstances would she have to file a tax return?