The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025).
When it comes to filing your taxes, determining the right filing status is more than just deciding whether you’re single or married. It’s an important choice that affects how much tax you’ll owe, what deductions you can claim, and which credits you’re eligible for. Whether you’re going through a big life change or just need a refresher, understanding your tax filing status is essential to make the most of your tax situation. Here’s how to figure out which filing status applies to you.
What is filing status and why does it matter?
Your filing status determines everything from your standard deduction to your tax rate. The right status can mean a lower tax bill, while the wrong one could leave you paying more than necessary. It impacts:
- Who needs to file a return: Your filing status can impact whether you even need to file a tax return.
- Tax form to use: It helps decide which form to file (Form 1040, etc.).
- Refund eligibility: Your filing status may also determine if you qualify for a tax refund.
- Standard deduction: Each filing status comes with a different standard deduction, which directly lowers your taxable income.
- Tax credits: Some statuses make you eligible for special tax credits.
- Taxes owed: Depending on your status, your tax rate could be higher or lower.
What are the 5 filing statuses?
There are five different filing statuses that you may be able to choose from. Here’s what each one means and who qualifies:
1. Single
The single status is for those who are unmarried, divorced, or legally separated under a divorce decree. If you don’t have a spouse or dependents, this is typically your default option.
Example: If you’ve never been married or if you’ve been divorced for the entire year, you’d file as single.
2. Married Filing Jointly
If you’re married, you and your spouse can choose to file your taxes together under the married filing jointly status. This is usually the most beneficial filing status because it offers the lowest tax rates and the highest standard deduction.
Example: If you’re married and live with your spouse all year, you’d file jointly. Even if your spouse passed away during the tax year, you could still file jointly for that year.
3. Married Filing Separately
Some married couples choose to file separately under the married filing separately status. This option might be beneficial in certain situations, such as if one spouse has significant medical expenses or other deductible costs that would benefit from a lower taxable income.
Example: If one spouse has high medical expenses and filing separately would give a larger deduction, it might make sense to file separately.
4. Head of Household
If you’re unmarried but have a dependent (such as a child or other relative) living with you, you might be able to file head of household. This status gives you a higher standard deduction than filing as single and comes with other benefits.
Requirements: You need to have paid more than half the cost of maintaining your home for yourself and your dependent(s) during the tax year.
Example: If you’re unmarried and financially support your child, you may qualify for head of household, which usually means you’ll pay less in taxes than if you filed single.
5. Qualifying Widow(er) with Dependent Child
If your spouse passed away in one of the last two years, and you have a dependent child, you may be able to file as a qualifying widow(er) with dependent child. This status is similar to married filing jointly but is only available for two years following the death of a spouse.
Example: If your spouse passed away and you’re raising a child on your own, you can use this status to get the same benefits as filing jointly for the next two years.
Factors that affect your filing status
So, how do you figure out which filing status applies to you? There are a few key factors to consider:
- Marital status: Your marital status on the last day of the year determines whether you file as single or married. Even if you were married for only part of the year, you’re still considered married for tax purposes.
- Dependents: If you have children or other dependents, that could qualify you for head of household or qualifying widow(er) status.
- Living situation: Are you living with a partner or by yourself? If you’re unmarried but support a dependent, you may qualify for head of household.
- Life changes: Big events like getting married, having a child, or losing a spouse can impact your filing status.
Get your filing status right for maximum savings
Choosing the right tax filing status isn’t just a technicality—it can impact your entire tax return. Whether you’re single, married filing jointly, head of household, or a qualifying widow(er), selecting the correct status can save you money.
File your taxes with ezTaxReturn and we’ll compare your options to help you make the smartest choice. Plus, you’ll get the biggest possible refund, guaranteed.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
