How should I file my return if my spouse recently died?

Your best filing status depends on your situation:

• If your spouse was still alive as of December 31, 2025, file your 2025 return jointly with your late spouse.
• If your spouse died in 2025, file jointly with your late spouse unless you remarried in 2025.
  • In that case, file a joint return with your new spouse and file your deceased spouse's return as Married Filing Separately.
• If your spouse died in 2023 or 2024, you didn't remarry in 2025, and you have a child that meets certain qualifications, you might be able to file as a Qualifying Surviving Spouse, which has certain tax advantages.
  • When you go through the Personal Info section in TurboTax, we'll determine if you meet those requirements.