I just Got married. Will I get a larger return if we file together or seperately?

[ander295]

I make 3 times more than my new husband. Will I get a larger return if I file with him or seperately?

[carolineb · Accepted solution]

Congratulations on your new marriage, Ander295! 

This is a common question for newlyweds. Filing separately will disallow many tax credits, such as education credits, adoption, or child care credits.  Also, if one spouse itemizes and takes all of the mortgage interest, real estate taxes, etc. the other spouse MUST also itemize, and in many cases will have no deductions left to take. 

In most cases, one spouse will get a refund, while the other gets hit with a liability. Adding the two usually results in a higher overall tax liability. 

Here is an informative link that will answer many of your questions: Should You and Your Spouse File Taxes Jointly or Separately?