What is my Filing Status?

There are 5 filing status options on a tax return:

  • Single
  • Married Filing Jointly
  • Married Filing Separately
  • Head of Household
  • Qualifying Widower
Capture of the top section of a 1040 showing the 5 filing status selections

To determine how you should file, consider what your status was as of 12/31. Even if your status changed throughout the year, the IRS is asking about a tax payer’s status as of the last day of the year.

If you’re still not sure, talk to your CPA or give the IRS tool a shot:

What is my Filing Status?