Unemployed Spouse

[Dustymatter]

My spouse is unemployed and isn't receiving any unemployment benefits (hasn't for the entire tax year), is there a specific way I need to file (box or item I need to check) to acknowledge for this.  I want to make sure that I'm getting the most back that I can, however I can't find any location for this option.

[MargaretL]

You can file Married Filing Jointly as usual. There is no special box or indication on your tax return to say that the spouse is unemployed or that he is nor receiving unemployment benefits.  It will be reflected on your return automatically, since you aren't reporting any of the spouse income. 

You will get the most refund back when filing jointly.  The fact that your spouse has no income will help your income (while file jointly) be reduced by 'joint' deductions, which may increase your refund/ lower your tax liability.

[amurray_01]

Hi Margaret

In that case that my husband is unemployed, do I write “Unemployed” when the job title/occupation question comes up in the personal section?

[LenaH]

You can list your husband as unemployed or you can write his typical occupation when he is employed. What you enter into the occupation section does not affect your tax return.

@amurray_01