If primary spouse passed away Jan 16, 2021. He received 1 paycheck, less than 600.00. All other accounts were transferred to me. Do I still file jointly?

[CSJ]

He would not have enough paycheck income to require filing. Last year, my refund was delayed because his social was flagged as deceased.  So IRS already has his death certificate.

[xmasbaby0]

Very sorry for your loss.  For the year that your spouse died, you can still file a joint return.  That way, you will get the married filing jointly standard deduction of $25,100 (+ $1350 for each spouse 65 or older) which will lower the amount of income you are taxed on.

In My Info, you will need to indicate that your spouse died. When his name is in My Info,  there is a screen early in the interview that asks "Do any of these apply to [name] ?’” where you will do that, and then a drop down will appear where you can enter the date he passed.

If you have dependent children still living at home, you will be able to file as a qualified widow for the next two years after this tax return.  Post back if you need further help.

[CSJ]

Thank you!  we do not have qualifying children living at home.