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New Member
posted Mar 15, 2020 10:38:56 AM

My husband died in March 2019. Can I file a joint return just as I did in past years and include both of our 2019 incomes, etc?

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2 Replies
Level 15
Mar 15, 2020 10:41:25 AM

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 $24,400 (+ $1300 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.

 

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/4149272-i-heard-that-the-federal-qualifying-widow-er-requirements-have-changed-and-also-that-states-vary-in-how-this-is-handled

 

You may find that e-filing is a problem--if so, print, sign and mail your joint return.

 

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.  Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.

Level 15
Mar 15, 2020 10:41:59 AM

Yes ... in the year of death you may certainly file a joint return with the decedent  UNLESS you have remarried  OR the personal rep for the decedent says no.