Can I file a tax report jointly if my husband and I are both F1 students and had income last year?

[international2021]

We both are resident alines for tax purposes.

[RalphH1 · Accepted solution]

If you’re “residents for tax purposes” (which would normally be the case sometime after five years in the U.S. for F1 people), then you definitely can file a joint return with your husband! (As you’re subject to the same set of rules which apply to citizens, including these filing status possibilities here.) 

Note that “Married Filing Jointly” and “Married Filing Separately” are the only choices once you are legally married (although there is a “Head of Household” possibility when couples live completely apart the last half of a year). Also, the joint status almost always gives the best tax result.

@international2021, be sure to post again if you have other questions about your situation!