715787
You'll need to sign in or create an account to connect with an expert.
When you are married, there are only two choice for filing status: Married Filing Jointly and Married Filing Separately. Head of Household requires you to be unmarried (with a very rare exception when you don't live together the last 6 months of the year).
There probably is no benefit to Married Filing Separately in your case.
Although there is no one answer since every situation is different, 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.
Tip: Only taxpayers who were still legally married as of December 31, 2017 are able to file as marrieds, whether jointly or separately.
Still have questions?
Questions are answered within a few hours on average.
Post a Question*Must create login to post
Ask questions and learn more about your taxes and finances.
shikhiss13
Level 1
Filing2024
New Member
LMcVeigh
Level 1
aayushk
Returning Member
hhhinblue
Returning Member