Below are some factors individuals should do after getting married regarding their taxes:
Name and address changes: Individuals who change their name after getting married should report their name change to the Social Security Administration ASAP. The name on someone’s tax return needs to match the name associated with their social security number on file with the SSA. A name and SSN mismatch can delay or even inhibit processing the return. Individuals will need to notify the IRS if they change their address after getting married. They will also need to apply for a new Social Security Card with Form SS-5, to update their information with the SSA. Additionally, they should notify the IRS of an address change using Form 8822, Change of Address if the couple moves once they are married.
Double-check withholding. Newly married couples should verify their tax withholding. If both partners work, that could cause them to move into a higher tax bracket or be affected by the additional Medicare tax. Completing new Forms W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance , will allow each spouses employer to withhold the right amount of federal income tax. Couples should review IRS Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax , for additional information regarding completing Form W-4.
Filing status. Married couples have the choice to file their taxes jointly or separately every year. For most couples, filing jointly makes the most sense, but everyone’s situation is different, and should be reviewed appropriately.