I can't get this to work. my spouse had $0 income for 2016. I was the sole support for the family. I need to be head of household.

[KatrinaB · Accepted solution]

You cannot file as head of household when you're married and living together. You must have been separated and living apart during the full last six months of the year for head of household status, when married. You are eligible to file as married filing jointly, as it doesn't matter if your husband had any income. Please view the Turbo tax FAQ below for more information about your filing status options.

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/tax-tips/IRS-Tax-Return/Should-You-and-Your-Spouse-File-Taxes-...

[VolvoGirl]

A spouse is never a dependent.  You still file a Joint return even if only 1person had income.  You get an exemption for each of you, same as claiming a dependent.