Tax confusion- how should we file taxes?

[markandoliv 3]

Hello everyone,

My wife (USC) works part time earning at least 600 a month, and is also a full time student.  We sent the aos application 95 days ago and are still waiting for ead and ap to be approved and issued- so currently unable to work. 

 

I earned around £8000 in the UK before moving to the US in august. 

 

Should we file as Married filed jointly?

 

If so, how do you do that? Sorry if this has been asked.  If possible any advice or signposts would be appreciated.  Thanks

 

 

 

[USS_Voyager 1,971]

2 minutes ago, markandoliv said:

Should we file as Married filed jointly?

As far as immigration is concerned, if you are married, you must file tax as married. Married jointly or married separately depends on how each couple prefers and how it would give an advantage (more refund money, .... ). Consult an accountant. For example, my wife and I file jointly at the federal and separately at the state level because our accountant said that would give us the most refund. 

[Crazy Cat 39,261]

If you have a SSN or ITIN (can be applied for during filing), you would probably benefit by filing jointly.  You would have to report your UK income, but it could probably be excluded (Form 2555).  If you and your spouse are not knowledgeable in how to file taxes, I suggest consulting a competent tax professional for the first year.....there are sometimes several factors which determine which is the lowest tax liability.

Edited January 16, 2020 by missileman