Filing options for lower earning spouse not filing jointly?

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Alex
Posts: 47
Joined: Sun Jan 22, 2012 9:05 am

Filing options for lower earning spouse not filing jointly?

Post by Alex »

Last year my Canadian wife earned more than me and ended up contributing as much or maybe more to our joint expenses. Can I still file as "Head of Household" or do I have to file "Married filing separately"? If I can do either one is there an advantage to one or the other. (I know it is often advised to file jointly, but my wife doesn't want to file US taxes since she doesn't have to.)
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nelsona
Posts: 18686
Joined: Wed Oct 27, 2004 2:33 pm
Location: Nowhere, man

Post by nelsona »

head of household in your case depends on your childd, not your spouse. as long as the child did not support THEMSELVES, you can file HoH.
After 20 years, I am severely cutting back on responses. Do not ask specifically for my help. There are a few others on this board that can answer most questions. All the best
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Alex
Posts: 47
Joined: Sun Jan 22, 2012 9:05 am

Post by Alex »

Thank you Nelsona. Glad to be sure of that.
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