My husband abandoned us back in 2007 and moved into his own apartment. There has been no legal divorce or separation agreement. Should I claim "single?"

I have no idea if he has been claiming married or not all these years. He doesn't contribute monetarily.

805

Level 2

Mar 28, 2023 8:29:27 AM

The IRS has a tool to help you decide how to file: https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/what-is-my-filing-status

Level 2

Mar 28, 2023 8:31:58 AM

I think to the government you are still considered married, since you do not have a legal separation. You will probably file "married filing separate".

Level 15

Mar 28, 2023 8:33:04 AM

Do you have dependent children at this time? You mentioned "us"----but that he left about 16 years ago. If you still have dependents you could file as Head of Household.

Am I Head of Household?

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894553-do-i-qualify-for-head-of-household

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2900097-what-is-a-qualifying-person-for-head-of-household

If you qualify as Head of Household, when you enter your marital status (single or married filing separately) into MyInfo, and then enter your qualifying dependent, TurboTax will offer HOH as your filing status.

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My husband abandoned us back in 2007 and moved into his own apartment. There has been no legal divorce or separation agreement. Should I claim "single?"