How to File Taxes if you are in a Civil Union in Vermont

By eHow Legal Editor

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Same-sex couples are blessed if they live in Vermont, the first state to allow civil unions in the United States. Once you and your partner are joined in a civil union, you will enjoy the same tax benefits as married couples. Be sure you follow these steps the next time you file taxes if you are in a civil union in Vermont in order to take advantage of all your benefits.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Get a new Form W-4. Whenever your financial situation changes you'll want to change your withholding information. You can download it from the IRS Web site or your employer may have one.

Step2

Check "married" in section 3. After that, fill out the form according to the number of dependents and incomes in your household.

Step3

Give the Form W-4 to your employer.

Step4

Download your state tax form from the Vermont Department of Taxes Web sites. Click the link in the Resources section and then click Forms.

Step5

Fill out your Vermont income tax forms. Check either "married filing jointly" if you are using one form or "married filing separately" if you will be submitting two forms.

Step6

Fill out your 1040 or whichever federal tax form you use. Again, do this as if you were married. Check either "married filing jointly" or "married filing separately. Use exemptions, deductions and credits according to the status you check.

Step7

Mark your federal form "Recomputed for VT purposes."

Step8

Make a copy of your federal tax return form. Attach it to your Vermont income tax form.

Step9

Send in both your forms.

Tips & Warnings

E-filing your taxes drastically speeds up the process.
Hiring a tax preparer makes things easier. Also, they may be able to pay for themselves by finding extra deductions for your situation.
Thanks to DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act), different states aren't required to recognize your Vermont civil union. If you move, you may not enjoy the tax benefits you enjoy in Vermont.
Read the instructions on the form carefully. Errors in filing can slow down the process and possibly amount to late fees.