Filed Tax as single but married..

[JoRu16 7]

Hi. So would it matter if I filed as single on my tax return because my wife doesn't have SSN and she's abroad?

[JimmyHou 610]

Hi. So would it matter if I filed as single on my tax return because my wife doesn't have SSN and she's abroad?

Yes, it would matter. It's not legal. If you are married you can file jointly or separately, but you cannot file as single. If you've already filed as single while married, then you should file an amended tax return.

Edited March 1, 2015 by JimmyHou

[Done--Really 331]

Everything you need to know is here -- it's not as bad as it looks. Just find the section that fits your situation, and then follow the directions.

http://www.irs.gov/publications/p519/index.html

[novedsac 355]

Depends on how you feel about the declaration you sign when you sign your tax returns:

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return and accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, they are true, correct, and complete.

In practice, though, the IRS isn't going to care unless filing MFJ or MFS results in a higher tax due the government - then you'd also be liable for penalties and interest from the date the total tax was originally due.

Edited March 1, 2015 by novedsac