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New Member
posted Mar 24, 2024 5:36:02 AM

Is my wife, who I am filling jointly with, considered a dependent if she is retired and bringing in no income other than Social Security?

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1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Mar 24, 2024 5:38:20 AM

No.  Unfortunately, the IRS doesn't allow you to claim your spouse as a dependent on a return, even if you completely supported her.

 

The good news is that you are still able to file a joint return with her, even if she had no income. For a joint return for tax year 2023, the standard deduction is $27,700 while on a Single status return, the standard deduction is only $13,850.   By including her on the return as your spouse, you will have a higher standard deduction.  This will help you to pay less taxes.