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KP3535
Returning Member

Married Filing Joint when one does not need to file?

We got married this year. One of us is not required to file as they earned less than $12,950. Is it more advantageous for the spouse that needs to file to file jointly? Or separately?

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Accepted Solutions

Married Filing Joint when one does not need to file?

Hi @KP3535 

 

We recommend you to run both scenarios (Married Filing Jointly or Married Filing Separately) to see which one gives you bigger tax break or refund.  Additionally, if you live in the following states:

  • Arizona
  • California
  • Idaho
  • Louisiana
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • Texas
  • Washington
  • Wisconsin

They are referred to as community property states. For Married Filing Separately, you will handle them differently. Pretty much rather than allocating your income based on earnings, you will allocate evenly 50/50 income and deductions. 

 

Additional information can be found by clicking here

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**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"

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2 Replies

Married Filing Joint when one does not need to file?

Hi @KP3535 

 

We recommend you to run both scenarios (Married Filing Jointly or Married Filing Separately) to see which one gives you bigger tax break or refund.  Additionally, if you live in the following states:

  • Arizona
  • California
  • Idaho
  • Louisiana
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • Texas
  • Washington
  • Wisconsin

They are referred to as community property states. For Married Filing Separately, you will handle them differently. Pretty much rather than allocating your income based on earnings, you will allocate evenly 50/50 income and deductions. 

 

Additional information can be found by clicking here

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post
**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"

KP3535
Returning Member

Married Filing Joint when one does not need to file?

Thank you. We do not live in one of those states.

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