How to File Taxes Together for the First Time
Changing your filing status from single to married is one of the first things a new couple will be required to do. Thankfully, the process for filing a tax return together versus alone requires only a few simple changes. Here are a some simple pointers you should remember in order to make the process as smooth and easy as possible.
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Instructions
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File a married filing jointly or married filing separately tax return. You get to decide which filing status is preferable based on your particular situation. If you prefer to keep your tax situations separate, it may be in your best interest to opt for the married filing separately status.
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Go to the Social Security office and make the name change official if you are a new wife and anticipate replacing your maiden name with your husband's last name or a hyphenated version of the two names. Neglecting this step will cause your tax return to be rejected by the IRS and you'll then be forced to refile using your maiden name.
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Use both spouses' W-2s and 1099s to determine your income amount and the amount of federal tax withheld. If you are filing a married filing jointly return, combine your income and your spouse's income and list it on the line designated for wages and salaries on your Form 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ or 1040NR. If one or both of you have income or losses from a business, list that amount on the line designated for income and loss from a business. The important thing to remember is that you're filing a joint return, so all income, withholding and other amounts are combined on one return.
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Sign the return in the designated area and have your spouse sign it next to your name if you're mailing a paper return. If only one signature is present, the return will not be processed.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that you and your spouse will receive only one income tax refund check. You are both required to endorse the back of the check before attempting to cash it.
If you or your spouse owe a federal or state debt, the IRS will intercept the entire refund and apply it to the debt. If you are the innocent spouse, you can complete Form 8379 to claim your portion of the refund.
