Frequently Asked Questions

1. What marital statuses can I claim on my tax return?

The marital statuses recognized by the IRS for tax purposes are as follows:

1. Single

  • Applies if you are not married and do not qualify to file as Head of Household.
  • Also applies if you are legally divorced or separated under a final decree by December 31 of the tax year.

2. Married Filing Jointly

  • Applies if you are legally married and you and your spouse decide to file a joint return.
  • Both parties are jointly responsible for the return and any taxes owed.

3. Married Filing Separately

  • Applies if you are married but decide to file your return separately from your spouse.
  • Generally results in higher tax rates and limitations on certain tax credits.

4. Head of Household

  • Applies if:
    • You were single or "considered single" (separated from your spouse for the last 6 months of the year).
    • You paid more than 50% of the costs of keeping up your home.
    • You had a dependent living with you for more than half the year (except in special cases, such as dependent parents).
  • Offers better tax benefits than "Single" or "Married Filing Separately".

5. Qualifying Widow(er) with Dependent Child

  • Applies if your spouse died in the two years preceding the tax year and you have at least one dependent child.
  • This status allows you to use the same tax rates as "Married Filing Jointly".

2. If my partner left the house, what marital status can I claim for tax purposes?

The marital status you choose will depend on whether you are legally married, separated, or divorced, and if you have dependents. Here are your options:

a) Married Filing Separately

If you are still legally married but live apart from your husband, you can opt to file your taxes as "Married Filing Separately". In this case:

  • You report only your income and deductions.
  • You cannot take advantage of certain tax credits available to joint filers, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

b) Head of Household

You may qualify as "Head of Household" if you meet these requirements:

  1. Have lived apart from your husband during the last 6 months of the year (temporary absences such as travel do not count).
  2. Paid more than 50% of the costs of maintaining your home.
  3. Have at least one dependent living with you (such as your children).

This marital status offers you better tax benefits, such as a lower tax rate and a higher standard deduction.

c) Single

If you are legally divorced or separated (with a legal agreement), you might file as "Single".

 

3. What is the standard deduction?

The standard deduction is the base amount of income that is not subject to tax, meaning it is an amount recognized by the IRS in your tax return on which you do not have to pay taxes. 

4. What is an ITIN?

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is an identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the United States. It is designed for individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) but need to comply with their tax obligations in the United States.

5. What is the purpose of an ITIN?

 

  • Filing taxes: Allows individuals to report earnings and pay federal, state, and local taxes.
  • Opening bank accounts: Some financial institutions allow accounts to be opened using an ITIN and to obtain credit cards.
  • Receiving tax refunds: If you qualify, you can receive a tax refund from the IRS.
  • Complying with the law: Helps individuals comply with tax laws, even if they do not have regular immigration status.
  • Documentation for certain procedures: May be required for activities such as claiming dependents or completing certain legal forms.

 

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