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Joint filing and dependent

Ktgvy98 — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 01:59:38 GMT

I have made a mistake before on my taxes and ended up owing them money. So I want to make sure I have it right this time. I have been married for over a year so I’m wondering how to file if my wife makes no income.
My next question is, I have a step son. How does that work exactly?

Re: Joint filing and dependent

VolvoGirl — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:04:13 GMT

You still file a Joint return and can claim step son as a dependent. Didn’t you file Joint last year? How old is the son?

Re: Joint filing and dependent

Ktgvy98 — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:06:14 GMT

We weren’t married during the tax season last year. Our son is 5.

Re: Joint filing and dependent

VolvoGirl — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:11:38 GMT

If you were married as of Dec 31,2024 you should file a Joint return even if your spouse didn’t have any income. That should change your return. You will get a higher Standard Deduction. Joint is better than claiming her as a dependent.

When did you get married? If you were married before 12/31/23 you could have filed Married Joint for 2023 too.