Last updated: April 2026 · Data: IRS, BLS, state sources
Your filing status determines which tax brackets, standard deduction amounts, and eligibility for credits and deductions apply to your federal tax return. There are five filing statuses, and choosing the correct one can save you thousands of dollars in taxes. Your filing status is determined by your marital and family situation on December 31 of the tax year.
| Status | Standard Deduction (2026) | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $15,000 | Unmarried, divorced, or legally separated with no dependents |
| Married Filing Jointly | $30,000 | Married couples filing one combined return |
| Married Filing Separately | $15,000 | Married couples who choose separate returns |
| Head of Household | $22,500 | Unmarried with qualifying dependent, paying >50% of household costs |
| Qualifying Surviving Spouse | $30,000 | Widowed within past 2 years with dependent child |
Married Filing Jointly almost always results in the lowest combined tax for married couples. Married Filing Separately is rarely advantageous but may be useful when one spouse has significant medical expenses or student loan payments tied to income-based repayment plans. Head of Household provides wider brackets and a larger deduction than Single status, benefiting unmarried parents significantly.
Try the tax calculators with different filing statuses to see how your choice affects your total tax liability.