Your filing status is one of the biggest drivers of your tax bill. The right choice can unlock credits and reduce your taxable income.

The most common filing statuses

• Single
• Married Filing Jointly
• Married Filing Separately
• Head of Household
• Qualifying Surviving Spouse

Why Head of Household matters

If you qualify, Head of Household can provide a higher standard deduction and better tax brackets. You generally must:

• Be unmarried or considered unmarried
• Pay more than half the cost of keeping up a home
• Have a qualifying dependent

Dependents are more than just kids

You might claim:

• A child dependent (age and residency rules apply)
• A qualifying relative (support and income limits apply)

Common mistakes that lower refunds

• Claiming the same child as a former spouse without the correct agreement
• Missing the Child Tax Credit or Dependent Care Credit
• Using the wrong filing status

Not sure where you fit?

We’ll review your household and maximize your credits. Start with Individual Tax Preparation or Contact Practical Tax.