Best Filling Status

[robertlkidd1]

I'm retired and just got married in May of this year.  I'm receiving income from Widowers SSI and my IRA. My new spouse is still working.  She also has a part time small business.  What would be the best way for us to file. 

[KochuK]

Hi robertlkidd1,

Good day, congratulations on getting married this year.

There are two filing options for tax year 2021: Married Filing Jointly; Married Filing Separately.

Below are two great TurboTax articles addressing your questions.

Should You and Your Spouse File Taxes Jointly or Separately?

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/marriage/should-you-and-your-spouse-file-taxes-jointly-or-separ...

Is it better for a married couple to file jointly or separately?

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/married/help/is-it-better-for-a-married-couple-to-file-jointly-or-...

For specific planning, you are welcome to use TurboTax Online 2020 program, setting up three user IDs - MFS husband, MFS wife, MFJ  and compare results. In general, MFJ is the best choice.