Tax Year 2026
Do married couples have to file taxes together?
No — but jointly usually wins.
Filing jointly is a choice, not a rule. Filing separately means a filing requirement at just $5 of income.
Your Two Options
Married on December 31 means you file as married — but you pick jointly or separately, and you can change your pick each year. One income or two doesn’t matter; a couple with one earner can (and usually should) still file jointly.
2026 Filing Thresholds
Jointly — both under 65$32,200
Jointly — one spouse 65+$33,850
Jointly — both 65+$35,500
Separately — any age$5
When Separate Makes Sense
Mainly two cases: lowering income-driven student loan payments, or separating yourself from a spouse’s tax debt or issues. Otherwise, separate filers lose several credits and usually pay more.