Yes, you can switch to married filing jointly, but NO, you cannot leave your spouses income off the return. You will need to include their income on your return if you are going to file jointly. Wh...
See more...
Yes, you can switch to married filing jointly, but NO, you cannot leave your spouses income off the return. You will need to include their income on your return if you are going to file jointly. When you file a joint return with your spouse you are jointly making an election to have them treated as a US Resident for tax purposes until that election is ended or suspended. This is not something you can switch back and forth with from year to year. However, if they meet the criteria for claiming the foreign earned income exclusion, you may be able to exclude their earned income from your return using form 2555. Considering they are an Italian Citizen living in Italy, if they have established residence in Italy for an uninterrupted tax year and intend to remain there, they may qualify under the bona fide residence test which would allow you to take the exclusion on your return. Or, you could possibly take the foreign tax deduction credit on form 1116. You can only take one or the other not both.
Basically, what this means is you will report their income and then fill out the extra form to keep the income from being taxed. To do this in TurboTax select the following:
Federal
Income
Less Common income
Foreign Earned Income and Exclusion
If your spouse does not have an ITIN or SSN, and you choose filing jointly, you will need to print and mail your return along with the W-7 and any other required documents to
IRS
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
US. Tax Guide for Aliens
One thing to consider when switching, IF you are just switching for the senior tax deduction. This will reduce your taxable income by $6,000 if you qualify for the deduction. It is NOT a tax credit that would directly dollar for dollar lower your tax liability or increase your refund.
For Tax Year 2025 through 2028, seniors may claim an additional deduction of $6,000 per taxpayer over 65. This is NOT a refundable credit. This is a deduction of your income.
If your income is above $75,000 ($150,000 if Married filing jointly) the bonus deduction decreases by $.06 for every dollar over the relevant amount.
This deduction is available whether you itemize or take the standard deduction.
If your filing status is married filing separately you are not eligible for this deduction.
This bonus deduction is ONLY for those who were 65 or older as of December 31, 2025, it does not apply to those who are blind and under 65
@kenoberg (edited 3/4/2026 @ 6:30AM)