Is it better to file taxes jointly or separately if we both worked last year?

[amirarmstrong]

Me and my wife got married last year and we both worked all year last year. Is it better to file separately or jointly?

[Vanessa A]

Generally, it is better to file jointly, as several credits and deductions are not available to those who file separate. For instance, earned income and education credits cannot be taken if you file a separate return.  If you wanted to itemize your return, you both have to itemize.  You cannot use the expenses twice so one of you may end up having zero or minimal deductions while the other one takes the itemized deduction.  

 However, some people would still rather file separate because their situation makes it better for them to file separately.  One big instance, is those using Income Based Repayments for student loans. A monthly payment may be lower for someone filing separate. 

One thing you can do is to use The Tax Estimator to see what is best in your situation.