Can I File a Joint Return if We Got Married on December 31?

Yes — if you were legally married on any day of the tax year, including December 31, you are considered married for the entire year and can choose to file jointly. Married Filing Jointly typically gives you the most favorable tax brackets and the highest standard deduction ($29,200 in 2024). You can also choose to file separately, but for most couples, joint filing results in a lower total tax bill. If one spouse has significantly higher income, a large unpaid tax debt, or student loan considerations (income-driven repayment plans are based on AGI), filing separately might make sense — but run the numbers both ways before deciding.