Adrian
Getting married is a major life milestone—but it also brings important tax changes that newlyweds must not ignore.
If you tied the knot in 2025, the IRS has a checklist to help you navigate your tax return with fewer errors, avoid delays in your refund, and possibly save more money.
Whether you’re taking your spouse’s last name or moving to a new address, even small details can have big tax consequences.
Here’s what every newlywed needs to know before filing their taxes for 2025.
Why Marital Status Matters
Your marital status as of December 31, 2025, determines your filing options for the 2025 tax year.
This means even if you got married on December 31st, you’re considered married for the entire year in the eyes of the IRS. This opens up new tax filing statuses, most commonly:
- Married Filing Jointly
- Married Filing Separately
Filing jointly typically offers a higher standard deduction (up to $29,200 for 2025), access to valuable tax credits, and lower tax brackets overall.
However, in some cases—such as high medical expenses, legal liabilities, or student loan repayments—filing separately may be more beneficial.
IRS Checklist for Newlyweds in 2025
To streamline your filing process and avoid refund delays, the IRS recommends that newlyweds complete the following key steps:
| IRS Checklist Item | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Update Your Name with SSA | If you changed your name after marriage, report it to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Your tax return must match SSA records. |
| Update Your Address | If you moved, notify the IRS using Form 8822 to ensure tax documents and refunds reach you. |
| Check Tax Withholding | Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to adjust your W-4 at work. Your new marital status may change your withholding needs. |
| Choose Your Filing Status | Evaluate whether filing jointly or separately will yield the best return. This could impact your refund or tax liability. |
| Coordinate Benefits & Deductions | Review income-based deductions and credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or student loan interest deductions. These may change based on combined income. |
Important Forms You May Need
- Form SS-5: To update your name with the SSA.
- Form 8822: To update your address with the IRS.
- W-4 Form: To change your withholding at work.
These documents help prevent mismatches in IRS systems that could delay your tax refund or trigger unnecessary correspondence.
Tax Credits & Benefits for Married Couples
Being married could make you eligible for additional tax benefits, such as:
- Higher phase-out limits for deductions and credits
- Joint IRA contribution deductions
- Student loan interest deduction
- Child Tax Credit, if applicable
These perks can boost your refund or reduce what you owe—if filed correctly.
Getting married changes more than your relationship status—it changes your tax landscape too. Don’t risk a delayed refund or missed benefits.
This IRS tax checklist for newlyweds in 2025 ensures your paperwork is in order and your refund stays on track.
Be proactive now and make your tax filing stress-free later. Because starting your new life together should be about love, not IRS penalties.
FAQs
What happens if I don’t update my name with the SSA before filing taxes?
If your tax return name doesn’t match SSA records, your return may be rejected or delayed, affecting your refund.
Should all married couples file jointly?
Not always. If one spouse has high medical bills, legal issues, or student loan repayments, filing separately may be more beneficial.
Can changing my address impact my tax return?
Yes. If the IRS has the wrong address, you may not receive important documents or your refund check if issued by mail.