In December 2023, I will become eligible to apply for naturalization based on my marriage. Is it considered a red flag if I choose to file taxes separately for that year 2023?

[Carlos A 0]

My partner and I were laid off during 2023, and my partner had to make withdrawals from retirement accounts and other sources, leading to a complex tax situation with penalties. To safeguard my part from being affected by these penalties, we are considering filing taxes separately for the first time during our marriage, and possibly partner won't file this year but I want to properly do it each year as usual. Is filing joint taxes a crucial piece of evidence when applying for naturalization? Would it raise a red flag if our taxes for the last year are filed separately?

 

Your feedback is highly valuable, and I appreciate it.

Thank you so much!

Edited February 2 by Carlos A
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[Rocio0010 5,570]

Nope, you are fine. You can file separately and it will not affect your case.

[Boiler 43,600]

You are filing under the 5 year rule?

[JeanneAdil 6,221]

no , we file separate now that he is in the US

otherwise , i would have to pay taxes on SS and retirement

i only did MFJ when he was still in Moroc

[Scandi 3,975]

Doesn't matter. USCIS likes to see the same address on the tax return, so you can send both your and your spouse's separately filed return transcripts instead of one jointly filed. That shows you reside at the same address. 

[powerpuff 5,919]

*** Topic moved from Progress Reports to Process & Procedures ***

[Bob in Boston 627]

No, there are many reasons for filing seperatly. As long as you file and pay what is owed you will be fine. you can bring your spouses return with you as proof of living together also.