I work but husband is retired. do I have to include his social security?

[ddnorman]

when I do we get $200 less than when I don't add his SSA-1099.

[DoninGA]

When you are filing as Married Filing Jointly you are required report all income for both of you, so you need to include his SS benefits your tax return.

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

Yes if you are filing a Joint return you have to report all your income including Social Security.  You can't pick and choose.

Up to 85% of Social Security becomes taxable when all your other income plus 1/2 your social security, reaches:

Married Filing Jointly: $32,000

Single or head of household: $25,000

Married Filing Separately: 0