Joint filing and dependent

[Ktgvy98]

I have made a mistake before on my taxes and ended up owing them money. So I want to make sure I have it right this time. I have been married for over a year so I’m wondering how to file if my wife makes no income. 
My next question is, I have a step son. How does that work exactly? 

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

You still file a Joint return and can claim step son as a dependent.   Didn’t you file Joint last year?  How old is the son?   

[Ktgvy98]

We weren’t married during the tax season last year. Our son is 5. 

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

If you were married as of Dec 31,2024 you should file a Joint return even if your spouse didn’t have any income.  That should change your return.  You will get a higher Standard Deduction.  Joint is better than claiming her as a dependent.  

When did you get married?  If you were married before 12/31/23 you could have filed Married Joint for 2023 too.