Can Spouses Be Dependents?

If you’re married and are the only member of the couple that works, you might think that you could claim your spouse as a dependent for tax purposes. Unfortunately, however, the IRS does not allow you to do this, at least now now.   

At one time, there was a loophole that savvy taxpayers could use to claim their spouse’s personal exemption, but that was repealed back in 2018. Even worse for hopeful taxpayers, it will stay repealed until at least 2026.

While this is disappointing news for couples in which only one spouse is employed, it doesn’t mean that you’re doomed or that you can’t save money on your tax returns. It just means that you have to find other ways to do it.

Determine the Best Way to File

To save money on your future taxes, it’s important to file in the best possible way. As a married person, this could mean filing a return with your spouse (filing jointly), or it could mean filing a separate return. The right choice for you and your partner will depend on a number of different factors. Thus, it’s best to have a tax professional look over your information and advise you on the best filing status for you.

Take Credits and Deductions Where You Can

In addition to choosing your ideal filing status, remember that there are all kinds of credits and deductions in existence. Just because you can’t file your spouse as a dependent, then, doesn’t mean you can’t save major money! A good accountant or professional tax preparer will ask you questions about your lifestyle, your spending throughout the year, and more to determine what credits and deductions you can qualify for.

As you can see, there are all kinds of ways to save money on your taxes. In fact, married couples often enjoy more tax breaks than single individuals. So, while you might not be able to claim your spouse as a dependent, being married could still help you out come tax time, especially if you have the right assistance on your side.