Marriage Tax Calculator
Find out if getting married will save or cost you money on taxes. Compare filing as two singles versus married filing jointly.
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The marriage bonus or penalty arises because federal tax brackets for married couples filing jointly are not always exactly double the single brackets. When two spouses earn similar incomes, their combined income can push them into higher brackets compared to filing separately -- resulting in a marriage penalty.
Conversely, when one spouse earns significantly more than the other, filing jointly often results in a marriage bonus. The higher earner benefits from the wider married brackets, while the lower earner's income fills the lower brackets.
This calculator compares the total tax burden if both partners filed as single versus the tax on their combined income filing jointly. The difference reveals whether marriage helps or hurts from a tax perspective.
Keep in mind that tax implications are just one factor. Marriage also affects estate planning, Social Security benefits, health insurance, and many other financial considerations. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.