Do I have to file taxes as a dependent?

Question

My husband and I were recently married. Right before our wedding I quit my job, and in a few weeks I'll be starting college full time while he works. Does he have to change his W4s to show me as a dependent? Do we have to file taxes with him listed as head of household and me as a dependent, or is it better for us to file jointly even though I won't be working? Thanks!!!

Answer 1

You are not his dependent, you are his spouse.  You can file as married filing jointly..NO he isn't allowed to file as head of household - that is a status for people who aren't married.  And actually your taxes are a lot less filing a joint return.

Answer 2

He cannot file as head of household and claim you as a dependent, for two reasons:  A person can file as head of household only if claiming a person to whom they are not married.  A person can claim his or her spouse only if filing jointly.

The best option is to file jointly.  The taxes for a married couple filing jointly are less than for a married person filing separately with the same income.