Page 44 - Filing Status for Individuals
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Tax Returns
Joint Return After Separate Returns Separate Returns After Joint Return
You can change your filing status from Once you file a joint return, you can’t
a separate return to a joint return by choose to file separate returns for that year
filing an amended return using Form after the due date of the return. Exception.
1040-X. A personal representative for a decedent
You can generally change to a joint can change from a joint return elected by
return any time within 3 years from the surviving spouse to a separate return for
the due date of the separate return or the decedent.
returns. This doesn't include any The personal representative has 1 year from
extensions. the due date (including extensions) of the
A separate return includes a return return to make the change.
filed by you or your spouse claiming See Pub. 559, Survivors, Executors, and
married filing separately, single, or Administrators, for more information on
head of household filing status. filing a return for a decedent.
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