Newlyweds Tax Checklist
Are there wedding bells in your future? A taxpayer’s marital status as of December 31st determines their tax filing options for the entire year.
Make sure you:
- Report a name change
- Update address
- Check withholding
- Review filing status
- Beware of scams
- Report a name change
Newlyweds should report any name changes to the Social Security Administration. If the name on a tax return does not match the name on file at the SSA tax refunds may be delayed.
You can update your information by filing form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. The form is available on SSA.gov, by phone at 800-772-1213, or at your local SSA office.
Update address
It’s important that you notify the United States Postal Service, all employers, and the IRS of any changes of address.
You can change your address with the IRS by filing Form 8822, Change of Address.
Check withholding
Within 10 days of your wedding, provide your employers with a new Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding. Spouses may move into a higher tax bracket or have additional Medicare tax. The Tax Withholding Estimator is a helpful tool for completing a new Form W-4.
Review filing status
Spouses can decide to file their taxes jointly or separately each year. In most cases, it is more beneficial to file jointly, but in some situations filing separately may be better.
Beware of scams
It is important to remember that the IRS will never contact you via emails, phone calls, social media or text messages. The IRS will generally begin contact through the mail.
Note: This information cannot take the place of advice from a lawyer. Each case is different and needs individual legal advice. You should contact the LITC or a private attorney if you need representation on a tax matter or if you have questions.