Do you have to change your marriage status on your tax deductions or can you still file single?

[smeltzer24]

Employer handles tax deductions from my income and the question is do you have to change your filing status with them or can you just handle it when you file during tax season?

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

You can leave it as Single at work. What  you claim at work doesn't have to match your tax return.   Which might be better so they take out more tax withholding.  But when you file your return you can only file as Joint or Married Filing Separate.   You might need to tell your employer you are married like for health ins or something else.  

[NCperson]

@smeltzer24  the W-4 mimics the tax return, so if you follow the W-4 directions CLOSELY and let the higher earning spouse go first, then the amount due / refund will be minimal comes April. 

There is no issue with continue to have the W-4 state "SINGLE" - it'll just increase the amount of the refund comes April

I am assuming all your income (and your spouse) is W-2 wages and there is little else.