How do I switch from married filing separately to married filing jointly?

Galina
Galina Member Posts: 1 Newcomer
edited December 2024 in Filing my taxes

last year I filed our tax return as married filing separately (MFS) for me and my husband. For 2024, I would like to file it as married filing jointly. Can I use my account? Or should I open a new account instead? Thanks!

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Answers

  • kiarab
    kiarab FreeTaxUSA Agent Posts: 132 image

    Hello,

    You can use your account. You will be listed as the main taxpayer (which generally just means that your name comes first on the tax return, not that you are earning more or less than your spouse). You cannot merge accounts if your husband has one through us, but I would recommend making sure you still have access to it in case he needs a copy of his tax returns.

    If you still want to, you can create a brand new account as well.

  • Finworthy69
    Finworthy69 Member Posts: 1 Newcomer

    How would this apply to an extension; I filed for the the extension as mfj and discovered it is better to file mfs as my wife works and I’m retired.

  • MatthewD
    MatthewD FreeTaxUSA Team Posts: 656 image
    Hi,

    Since an extension was filed, which has both your SSNs on it, but the form 1040 return has not been filed, nothing needs to be done to change the filing status on your Extension. You can file as MFS before the extension filing deadline, but I recommend that you create a separate account for each of you.

    I am very surprised that it would be better that you file Married Filing Separately, even if only one of you has earned income. Generally speaking, Married Filing Joint, is always the best option. I suggest you create two more accounts and enter the information for each spouse as MFS and then use your original account to complete a MFJ return. See what the best option is.

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