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New Member
posted Jun 1, 2019 10:34:38 AM

If I filed Joint and I file single this year, does my husband have to sign my return?

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1 Best answer
Intuit Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 10:34:43 AM

If you are married, but you file "Married Filing Separately (MFS), your husband does not need to sign that return. If you are considered "Unmarried" your husband does not need to sign the return. 

According to the IRS:

"Marital Status

In general, your filing status depends on whether you are considered unmarried or married.

Unmarried persons.

You are considered unmarried for the whole year if, on the last day of your tax year, you are either:

  • Unmarried, or
  • Legally separated from your spouse under a divorce or separate maintenance decree.

 State law governs whether you are married or legally separated under a divorce or separate maintenance decree."


2 Replies
Level 15
Jun 1, 2019 10:34:42 AM

If you are still married, you cannot file "Single".  Your choices are married filing jointly or married filing separately.

Intuit Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 10:34:43 AM

If you are married, but you file "Married Filing Separately (MFS), your husband does not need to sign that return. If you are considered "Unmarried" your husband does not need to sign the return. 

According to the IRS:

"Marital Status

In general, your filing status depends on whether you are considered unmarried or married.

Unmarried persons.

You are considered unmarried for the whole year if, on the last day of your tax year, you are either:

  • Unmarried, or
  • Legally separated from your spouse under a divorce or separate maintenance decree.

 State law governs whether you are married or legally separated under a divorce or separate maintenance decree."