I got married in aug 2017, do I have to file as married even though it was less than half the year?

[Lisa995]

Your status on Dec 31st, 2017 is what IRS looks at.  So you're either Married Filing Jointly, or Married Filing Separately.

[MollsBBU · Accepted solution]

Yes. If you were married as of December 31, 2017, you are considered Married for tax purposes for that year. Your options are to file Married Filing Jointly or Married Filing Separately although Jointly is almost always more beneficial.

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