@NCperson wrote:
@dark0108 - be very careful with the decision - there are "mindfields" and best to decide how to file in April, 2024 based on what really occured..and that includes what tax changes Congress may make between now and then as well as the existing rules for some of the tax credits you might be eligible for.
a lot of the tax credits (think EITC and Educational tax credits) are lost / reduced if you file MFS.
96% of married couples file joint....because the rules drive that behavior
If the tax laws stay as they are now, and Congress doesn't give away any more freebies, you will probably save more filing MFJ, than your father-in-law would lose. However, this is not always the case, especially if the father-in-law could qualify as head of household.
I would start by looking at whether he could qualify to claim you as dependents, and then if he can, do a comparison to see what happens either way. Most importantly, you need to talk it over in advance.
Best.
