Question: File taxes as married?

[umalik91 6]

Hello, I married my spouse in September 2017 and have not yet filed for my 2017 taxes. I want to know if I need to report taxes as married or married but living separate? I’m not sure what the fields are but I read online that it’s a must to file as married but my accountant said that if she is not in USA (doesn’t have a social security) then I should file as single.

 

Can anyone plz clear up to confusion for me? Thank you in advance 

[Roel 7,192]

You have to file married separately. 

You cannot file single since you're married. Doesn't matter that your spouse is loving abroad. 

 

I can't believe there are still "professionals " who can't get this right. If you check with official iRS info it clearly states that married = file married. 

[lindinhos96 48]

Agree with Roel. I suggest consulting with an accountant who is aware of common issues that people from other countries face (which could also be helpful even when your spouse moves here); a good accountant should know when they don't have enough expertise in this area and tell you when it is time for you to find a different one instead of giving you incorrect advice that could cause an issue for you in the future. I can recommend one if you pm me. 

[umalik91 6]

Thank you both for your repsonse. I was sure it has to be married but wanted to to triple confirm with VJ community. Thank you!

[Ryan H 3,812]

Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Progress Reports to Tax & Finances During US Immigration.

[rock4blaqkhearts 12]

I had the same issue. Usually I file online with TurboTax but it wouldn't allow me to type NRA in the SSN field. I ended up going to a CPA and filed it as Married Filing Separately and he was able to type in NRA with his tax software.

[umalik91 6]

Thank you, thats what I intend on doing now @rock4blaqkhearts

[lavij89 1]

My husband called them up numerous times and they advised him to file as “head of household” since I am not currently in the US and have no SSN which is needed to file as “married filling separately”.  (Note: my mother-in-law lives in same household as well) 

 

Since this is a crucial document, I would suggest getting information directly from the source or an experienced CPA. 

[umalik91 6]

I read the entire VJ wiki on the NVC stage and it mentions to file MFS. In my opinion, after reading numerous posts mfs, mfj, or hoh are all fine depending on situation. If you say mfj you have to get the ITIN which can take several weeks.

 

thanks everyone for the help

[rock4blaqkhearts 12]

I would say don't do MFJ now. Getting an ITIN is a chore. I looked into it but that's even more paperwork. You will take a hit on taxes due to filing separately. But you can always amend it later on and get some money back after your spouse gets an SSN. Whichever you decide to do, good luck.