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New Member
posted Mar 30, 2020 6:34:05 PM

When fildo both partners file their own taxes but choose the file together option?

do married partners both have to individually file their taxes?

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1 Best answer
Expert Alumni
Mar 30, 2020 7:23:19 PM

No, married partners do not have to file individually.  They can file joint or married filing separately.  

Generally, filing jointly will give you a bigger refund or less taxes due. When you file separately, your tax rate is higher and you won't be able to claim:

On top of that, if you live in the community property states of Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, or Wisconsin, you have to deal with community property allocations and adjustments, which adds extra work and complexity to your tax preparation chores.

1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Mar 30, 2020 7:23:19 PM

No, married partners do not have to file individually.  They can file joint or married filing separately.  

Generally, filing jointly will give you a bigger refund or less taxes due. When you file separately, your tax rate is higher and you won't be able to claim:

On top of that, if you live in the community property states of Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, or Wisconsin, you have to deal with community property allocations and adjustments, which adds extra work and complexity to your tax preparation chores.