Recently Married

[Cworrell38]

I recently got married but my husband owes federal. Should we file separately. I also have a 16 yr old dependent?

[Anonymous]

Hi,

Here is a very good article showing the benefits of filing jointly versus separately:

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/marriage/should-you-and-your-spouse-file-taxes-jointly-or-separ... 

A higher standard deduction is given to those filing jointly.

You can claim your dependent on either or separate, or joint return.

Here is an article regarding rules for claiming dependents:

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/family/rules-for-claiming-a-dependent-on-your-tax-return/L8LODb... 

Thank you,

John

CPA