Marriage Tax Calculator
This calculator compares the taxes each spouse pays while filing individually versus as a married couple filing jointly. It shows whether marriage leads to a tax penalty or tax benefit.
Spouse 1 Income
Spouse 2 Income
Enter both spouses' information to see your marriage tax impact
1. Individual Income Calculation
Total Income = Wages + Interest + Passive + STCG + LTCG + Qualified Dividends
Taxable Income = Total Income - Deductions - Self-Employment Tax Deduction
2. Joint Income Calculation
Joint Income = Spouse 1 Total Income + Spouse 2 Total Income
Joint Taxable = Joint Income - Joint Deductions - Combined SE Tax Deduction
3. Marriage Penalty/Benefit
Penalty/Benefit = (Individual Tax 1 + Individual Tax 2) - Joint Tax
Positive result = Marriage Benefit | Negative result = Marriage Penalty
4. Percentage Impact
Marriage Impact % = (Penalty or Benefit ÷ Joint Income) × 100
What causes a marriage penalty?
Marriage penalties typically occur when both spouses have similar high incomes, pushing them into higher tax brackets when filing jointly compared to filing separately.
What causes a marriage benefit?
Marriage benefits often occur when spouses have significantly different incomes, allowing the higher earner's income to be partially taxed at the lower earner's lower rates.
Should we file jointly or separately?
Most couples benefit from filing jointly, but this calculator helps you determine the optimal strategy. Consider other factors like eligibility for certain credits and deductions.
How accurate are these calculations?
This calculator provides estimates based on 2025 tax brackets and standard deductions. Actual taxes may vary based on additional factors like AMT, phase-outs, and specific credits.