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New Member
posted Mar 9, 2021 1:00:41 PM

How do I change primary filed on tax return? My husband George died in 2020. Our joint return for 2019 was rejected by IR S and so far still has not been accepted.

Can I change filing status to widowed filing single?

0 2 254
2 Replies
Employee Tax Expert
Mar 9, 2021 3:32:03 PM

Did you file your 2019 tax return by mail then?

 

If so, you may need to enter $0 for the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) amount as the tax return may not have been processed yet.

 

This may be the reason for the rejection. 

 

You can still file as Married Filing Jointly since he passed away in 2020 so I recommend keeping that filing status as it is more beneficial tax wise.  

 

I am so sorry for your loss.

Level 2
Mar 9, 2021 4:35:42 PM

There is a place to put your husband's date of death on your 2020 return. It's 1/2 way down on his personal worksheet. I'm sorry for your loss.