Massachusetts gives you the option to file a joint or separate state return.
If you are legally married, you have the option of filing either a joint return or a married filing separate return.
You can use your one free download for Massachusetts if you do not need to file a New Hampshire interest and dividends return.
How do I prepare a joint federal return and separate state returns?
Massachusetts taxes wages at a flat 5% so filing together or separate will probably not impact the amount of tax you owe either way.
Filing a joint return allows for some tax breaks including:
- A credit of $180 ($360 for two or more dependents) for a dependent member of household under age 12, or dependent age 65 or over as of December 31, 2022 (not you or your spouse) or a disabled dependent and
- Excess unused exemptions against interest income (other than interest from Massachusetts banks), dividends or capital gain income.
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