<prompt> Human: Hi, Im 20 years old and just recently moved to California from Japan. My parents do not pay for anything and was wondering how could I be a resident in California since my original would be in Washington State where they live. Do I file my own taxes and ask them to take me off of their taxes? And was curious what harm or good does that do for them and myself? I am trying to go to colleges here but itll be tough to pay out of state so I am trying to get instate tuition.  <response>: Youre asking a bunch of questions: 1 In order to qualify for California residency, you have to have lived there for 366 days and demonstrate your intent to make that your home state. Youll need a CA drivers license, CA bank account and a few other things to secure that claim, check the states website.2 If you earned income from a job, you have to file taxes. They may still claim you as a dependent. If youre confused, talk to your parents and your parents accountant.3 If you file for yourself and dont allow them to claim you as a dependent, they could miss out on a few thousand bucks. Depending on who supports you financially, they may or may not be able to claim you.4 Youll have to establish residency before you get in state tuition, as 1 explains, but youll be heavily scrutinized to determine that. 