My divorce decree states I can claim my daughter as my dependent on my tax return. I have paid child support faithfully until just over a year ago because I was laid off. Should I still claim my daughter on my taxes as a dependent or should I wait to begin paying again before I claim her.

If the decree states you get to claim your child then do so. But if it were me I would then take that refund if there is one and turn it over as child support so the child still can receive the benefit. Even if I have to go hungry I would do it.

Yes you can claim the child. I will assume you have filed in court to modify what you owe, so that it is a lot less based on current income. That way you are not required to pay as much during this time you are not working.

Found this website for you, hope something in there can help. http://www.legalace.com/articles/smartdivorce/articles/taxtips.shtml