Married Joint Filing

[TracyRoseL]

My fiancé moved to California from Louisiana in January 2024. We married in February. I supported him while he job searched. He was unable to find a job and moved back to New Orleans for the job he had in November of 2024. Is it possible to file jointly? 

[VolvoGirl]

When did you get married?  Feb 2024 or 2025?  If you were married on Dec 31, 2024 you have to file as Married.  Either a Joint return or Married filing Separate.   Joint is usually the best way to file even if your spouse has little or no income.  

[KeshaH]

Yes, you can file a joint return for your federal and state returns for 2024 if you were married in 2024. 

Since your husband wasn't a resident of Louisiana for the whole year, you'd file part-year returns for both California and Louisiana. All of your income would be taxable in Louisiana. Your husband's income (if any) would be allocated between California and Louisiana.