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Can I file using head of household filing status if I am married?
Contributed by: PhillipB, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro Generally, no. In most cases, head of household filing status is only for a single person who provides shelter and support for a dependent who lives with them most of the year. However, there are a few rules that may allow a married person to file using the head of…
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Should I file using the married joint or separate filing status?
Contributed by: PhillipB, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro Married filing jointly is commonly recognized as the most advantageous filing status. However, are there many reasons to use the married filing separate or (in some cases) the head of household filing status even while you’re still married? The answer is “it depends.”…
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When should I fill out Form SS-8?
Contributed by: KristineS, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro You were hired on to work for your new employer, congratulations! As far as you knew, you were an employee and every time you were paid, whatever taxes needed to be sent to the IRS were taken care of. You assumed you’d receive a W-2 at the end of year to file on your tax…
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How do I file married filing separately when I live in a community property state?
Contributed by: KiaraB, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro Filing as Married Filing Separately (MFS) usually isn’t a big deal. But if you live in a Community Property State, it gets more complicated. Most married couples file a joint return because it’s generally more tax advantageous for them. But sometimes, you might want to file…
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Which filing status should I use?
Contributed by: TriciaD, FreeTaxUSA Agent Choosing the right filing status can be overwhelming. Knowing the pros and cons of each and evaluating your personal circumstances like marriage, divorce, or relocation can help you decide. Every tax situation is unique and selecting the correct filing status can potentially save…
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Why should I file my tax return by the April deadline?
Contributed by: TriciaD, FreeTaxUSA Agent At the beginning of each year, you may find yourself turning your thoughts to tax season. The looming deadline of April 15 may seem comfortably distant, a future concern to worry about later. The temptation to procrastinate can be a slippery slope, filled with stress and possible…
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Why should I purchase Audit Defense?
Contributed by KristineS, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro The IRS is the most powerful collections agency in the world. Are you prepared to face them alone? With the power to question, challenge or change what’s reported on your return, the IRS can send a letter requesting you provide an explanation or additional supporting…
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How to file a tax return for a deceased spouse with a locked social security number
Contributed by: TriciaD, FreeTaxUSA Agent Losing a spouse or loved one is a difficult and emotional experience which can bring financial challenges. One of these challenges is how to file a tax return for the year of death, especially if the Social Security number (SSN) of the deceased spouse gets locked by the IRS. Here…
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Do I need to file a return if my only income is Social Security?
Contributed by KeriC, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro Generally, if your only income is your Social Security benefits, you don’t need to file a tax return. Reportable Social Security benefits include yours or your spouse’s monthly retirement, survivor, and disability benefits. Social Security benefits including Supplemental…
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What do I do if my return is being rejected for not including Form 8862, Information to Claim Certain Credits after Disallowance?
Contributed by: MatthewD, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro and RachelS, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro After filing electronically, you may get a notice or rejection from the IRS about your refund or tax return stating it was either adjusted/lowered or rejected for this reason: “We didn't allow the amount claimed as Earned Income…