When can I use filing status for widow?

For two years after the year of your spouse’s death you can use the qualifying widower status if all of these are true:

• You were entitled to file a joint return with your spouse for the year your spouse died. It doesn’t matter whether you actually filed a joint return or not.
• You have a child or step child you can claim as a dependent. This doesn’t include foster children.
• You have not remarried.
• The child lived in your home all year. There are exceptions for temporary absences, birth, and death during the year.
• You paid more than half the cost of keeping up your home for the year.

Qualifying widow(er) status entitles you to use both of these:

• Married filing jointly tax rates — However, you’re not entitled to file a joint return after the year of death.
• The highest standard deduction amount — Use this if you don’t itemize deductions.