Deceased spouse

[pfbench]

My wife passed away in 2024.  When I use Turbotax to E-file my 2024 taxes, I'll use "Married Filing Jointly" status, but what special notations or signature rules will apply and how do I implement them in the Turbotax program?

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

Very sorry for your loss.  For the year that your spouse died, you can still file a joint return.  That way, you will get the 2024 married filing jointly standard deduction of $29,200 (+ $1500 for each spouse 65 or older) which will lower the amount of income you are taxed on.

In My Info, you will need to indicate that your spouse died. When her name is in My Info,  there is a screen early in the interview that asks "Do any of these apply to [name] ?’” where you will do that, and then a drop down will appear where you can enter the date she passed.

If you have qualifying dependent children you will be able to file as a qualifying surviving spouse  (QSS) for the next two years after this tax return.  Post back if you need further help.

https://blog.turbotax.intuit.com/tax-planning-2/tax-implications-for-taxpayers-who-have-lost-a-spous...