Since i am not 24, married or have children, i am considered a dependent. I have been on my own for a year now, at the age of 18. I am paying for school by myself so why am i considered dependent?

How do i claim myself as independent?

check your school and see if they can get you to be independent by filling your own taxes, paying rent, and utilities some schools will let you do that, but you can't live in the dorms, and being independent doesn't mean you get more money its a myth

If you still live in your parents home, you would be considered a dependent.  My daughter at 18 was away at college, worked for the summer and claimed herself as an independent, she even received a stimulus check for $360 from the Govt. in 2008 even though she wasn't paying for school. 

It depends on where you are living, but you say you've been on your own therefore, they can't claim you if your working or going to school and not  living at home. If you are working and over 18 then you need to claim yourself correctly on the W-2 form they give you at work.  Also, you have the right if you are paying your own way for school.  You can always call the IRS and ask them directly, no one can claim you without proving they support you.  Good Luck!  It should work out in your favor.