You can only file as a Qualifying Widow or Widower for the two years after the year in which your spouse died. If you do not remarry in the third year after your spouses death, you are considered single. You will need to use the Single filing status unless you qualify to file as Head of Household.

Is a widow considered still married?

Whether you consider yourself married as a widow, widower, or widowed spouse is a matter of personal preference. Legally you are no longer married after the death of your spouse. A person whos lost their spouse may have made a vow to stay “married” for the rest of their life even after their spouse dies.

Is it better to file single or widow?

For two tax years after the year your spouse died, you can file as a qualifying widow or widower. This filing status gives you a higher standard deduction and lower tax rate than filing as a single person. You must meet these requirements: You havent remarried.

Is a widow considered head of household?

If youre eligible for the qualifying widow status, you wont yet be required to file as single or head of household, which both offer lower standard deductions. Additionally, your income will be subject to the lower tax rate enjoyed by those under the married filing jointly status.

What is your filing status if your spouse dies?

The deceased spouses filing status becomes Married Filing Separately. Surviving spouses who have a dependent child may be able to use the Qualifying Widow(er) status in the two tax years following the year of the spouses death.