The Pros and Cons of Married Filing Jointly?

Answer 1

Married taxpayers have the option of submitting separate or joint tax returns. The married filing jointly option lowers your tax obligation more than filing separately. Your standard deductions for this filing status are generally higher. You may also be eligible for tax benefits that aren't allowed for other filing categories. This filing status is usually best when one spouse's income is significantly higher than the other spouse's income. If both individuals work and qualify for large itemized deductions, it can be beneficial to file separately. Each taxpayer must determine the best option for their situation. Tax laws can be very complicated. You should contact an experienced tax professional for advice for assistance filing your taxes.

To qualify for this filing status, you must be legally married prior to the end of the year. The couple must agree to jointly file and sign the income tax return that includes all income, deductions and credits. Your signature indicates that you each accept responsibility for the thoroughness and accuracy of the document. This means that the IRS can hold both spouses individually or jointly responsible for taxes, interest and penalties due on the joint return. These means that one spouse can be held liable for all the taxes even if the other spouse was the one who earned the income and understated the taxes. The agency can release you from this tax liability if you had no knowledge of the error and did not materially benefit from the mistake. Check with a professional tax preparer for more information on equitable relief, separation of liability or innocent spouse relief.

The IRS permits you to file one last joint return for the year in which your spouse died. According to the IRS, you are considered married the entire year. In subsequent years, you are allowed to file as a single taxpayer, head of household or surviving spouse. The benefit of filing a separate return is that you are not jointly liable for your spouse's taxes. It is generally more beneficial for taxpayers to file jointly.