I retired in December 2018, and we now have only one income. 1) Am I now a dependent for my wife on 2019 taxes? 2) How should she adjust her W4 withholding?

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

No.  A spouse is NEVER a dependent.  You still should file a joint return.  You say you retired--are you receiving retirement income from a pension, or Social Security?  If so , that income has to go on your joint return.  Your wife can adjust her W-4 by using the W-4 calculator

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-withholding-calculator

[jimleahy]

I retired in December at age 57. Now just living on her income. I will need to draw on my 401k in the next couple months. I turn 58 in March. I believe her W4 claims zero for maximum withholding.

[fanfare]

withdraw as little as possible from 401k.   it will be penalized until you reach age 59 1/2.

[jimleahy]

Thanks. That's my plan. I also have a pension, a Roth IRA and a few regular IRAs along with the 401k.

[JulieR]

No. You are not your wife's dependent.  You will still file as a married couple.  Your wife may want to adjust her W4 withholding, however, to account for the fact that your earnings have changed.