@CassandraGay wrote:
Why would I file single? Do I qualify for widower without dependent? something to do with being able to still file for 2 years. Filing single puts me in a higher bracket & I was unemployed all of 2021.
For Qualifying Widow filing status you have to have a dependent child being claimed on your tax return.
IRS Publication 501 page 10 - https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p501.pdf#page=10
Eligibility rules. You are eligible to file your 2021 return as a qualifying widow(er) if you meet all the following tests.
1. You were entitled to file a joint return with your spouse for the year your spouse died. It doesn't matter whether you actually filed a joint return.
2. Your spouse died in 2019 or 2020 and you didn't remarry before the end of 2021.
3. You have a child or stepchild (not a foster child) whom you can claim as a dependent or could claim as a dependent except that, for 2021:
a. The child had gross income of $4,300 or more,
b. The child filed a joint return, or
c. You could be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
