Can same sex married couples jointly file taxes?

The other good news: The federal government now allows married same sex couples to file joint federal income tax returns. In states where same sex couples can marry and in the those that recognize civil unions or registered domestic partners, qualifying couples can file joint state income tax returns.

The other good news: The federal government now allows married same sex couples to file joint federal income tax returns. In California, certain unmarried heterosexual couples who live together can also register as domestic partners and file joint state tax returns.

Can a Virginia couple file a joint tax return?

The Virginia couple has never been able to file joint returns at the federal or state levels, but because the IRS has adopted a “state of celebration” standard, they may now file a joint federal return so long as they have a marriage certificate issued by another state that recognizes same-sex marriage.

When do same sex spouses have to file their taxes?

For tax year 2012, same-sex spouses who filed their tax return before Sept. 16, 2013, may choose (but are not required) to amend their federal tax returns to file using married filing separately or jointly filing status.

Can a married couple file federal taxes jointly?

All married couples have the choice to file jointly or separately for federal taxes. Some states offer this option as well. If your state offers you the option of filing two single returns or filing jointly as a couple, a big question is whether filing a joint return on the state level will save or cost you money.

Can a same sex couple file a joint state return?

To illustrate, take two same-sex couples, one living in Maryland (which recognizes same-sex marriage) and one living in Virginia (which does not). The Maryland couple, in the past, has been able to file a joint state return but has had to file separate federal returns.