Head of household is a special filing status that allows for several unique tax breaks such as a higher standard deduction, lower tax rates, and more generous eligibility for certain deductions and credits than normal single filers. In order to qualify as a head of household you must be an unmarried taxpayers who supports a dependent for at least half the year and also pays at least half the cost of maintaining a home. The qualifying dependent in question must live with you for at least half the year, except for temporary absences such as school, unless they are your parents. A qualifying parent does not have to live with you as long as you support them. Even if you don’t qualify as a head of household, you could still get a tax break by claiming dependents, which allows for extra personal exemptions and may qualify you for certain credits.