Marriage Tax Calculator

Compare taxes before and after marriage to find your bonus or penalty.

Formula & Methodology

Compare combined tax as two single filers versus tax as married filing jointly to find the bonus or penalty.

Worked Example

Two earners each making $75,000 may owe a similar amount filing jointly versus separately, while a single earner with a non-working spouse often sees a bonus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the marriage penalty?

It occurs when a married couple pays more tax filing jointly than they would as two single filers, often when both earn similar high incomes.

What is the marriage bonus?

It occurs when a couple pays less filing jointly, common when one spouse earns much more than the other.

Does this include state tax?

No. This estimates federal tax only. State rules vary and can add their own penalty or bonus.

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