Tax returns and citizenship

[8singhk]

Hi,
I am married to a foriner (non-America) since 2010 and now I am due for my American citizenship. Thus far I have applied my tax returns as being single. When filling my n-400 I am confused as to disclose my marriage or not. If I disclose it, what about my tax returns that say single. Someone please help if you know anything about this.

Thanks

 

[Jackolantern]

The country where you got married or where the other person came from or where they live doesn't matter; you're still married in the eyes of the US government. Unless you have been legally separated, or your marriage is not legally recognized by the government where it took place, you're supposed to file taxes as married (either married-jointly or married-separately) or Head of Household (if certain conditions are met, but most married people don't satisfy those conditions).

So before filing the N-400 you'll need to file amended returns as married or HoH in order to correct the returns for 2010 and 2011, and pay the tax owed if it results in a higher tax liability (but if your spouse has no income or very low income, you'll probably get a refund if you file as married-jointly). Then file the return for 2012 as married or HoH, and declare your marital status as married on the N-400.

 

[newacct]

Agreed. You've been filing taxes wrong. You need to fix it, regardless of whether you're applying for citizenship. Otherwise the IRS will come after you.