Do you file MFJ for surviving spouse, up until DOD and then file second 1040 as Sgl from DOD to end of yr

[linkramer2]

Two 1040's:

1st 1040:  1/1/18 thru 7/7/18 (DOD of TP) where couple files MFJ

2nd 1040: 7/8/18 thru 12/31/18 for spouse filing Sgl

[Accountant-Man]

What does your paid tax professional say?

[garman22]

yeah.

[IRonMaN · Accepted solution]

You only file one return.  As long as deceased spouse was alive for one day in 2018, a joint return can still be filed.

[taxiowa]

What if they remarry by end of year?

[garman22]

Thats a good question and one I've never come across.

[IRonMaN]

I didn't see that in the original post :smile:

[taxiowa]

You file MFS for dead dude and then MFJ for dude that was waiting in line for her hand in marriage.

[garman22]

Oh, that sucks for dead dude...but he is dead so....

Reminded me of (dont know why) client who remarried at end of a taxable year and she normally received substantial EIC. Lost it with MFJ. She was PISSED. I said she should've consulted her taxman (me) about getting married. Forget the priest.

[IRonMaN]

Father Garman - has a nice ring to it.

[garman22]

oh Lord.......Dear God, Please forgive my friend, he knows not.

The earth would open up and swallow me whole if I put the collar on!!

[Accountant-Man]

Me, too, garman22, many years ago. Long time unmarried partners decided to marry without consulting me. She had a child and got EIC, except she didn't when she got married. Had she waited 3 months until January she would not have lost $3,000.

[garman22]

we do come across every now and again those that should really consult us......I understand its a joyous time but maybe just maybe they can hold off for just a little while.

[Mt-Juliet--CPA]

Just One Return for the year with MFJ based upon your info