Thinking about tying the knot with a virtual wedding and wondering how it could affect your taxes? You’re not alone! As more couples choose to get married online for convenience or necessity, combining your lives on paper comes with some important questions when it’s time to file with the IRS.
Why Virtual Marriage Matters for Your Tax Filing Status
If you’ve had an online wedding or a Zoom marriage, the good news is that these marriages are legally recognized in most U.S. states. That means—you guessed it—you can file your taxes as “Married Filing Jointly” or “Married Filing Separately.” No matter how you said “I do,” including via a virtual wedding ceremony, your marital status is what the IRS cares about as of December 31st each year.
How to Use Your Online Marriage Certificate for Taxes
Your online marriage certificate is just as legitimate as one from a courthouse wedding. Be sure to have your certificate handy as supporting documentation in case you need to update your name or health insurance status and when you’re ready to file taxes as a married couple. If you need official copies or need your certificate validated for other purposes, check out our Apostille Service.
The Financial Benefits of Filing Jointly After a Virtual Wedding
One of the perks of being able to get married online is unlocking the potential financial benefits of joint filing. This can include access to a higher standard deduction and possible credits that reduce your overall tax bill. Plus, couples who use our same day virtual marriage service can get their certificate quickly—so those tax advantages can kick in fast!
International Couples: Special Considerations With the IRS
If one or both of you isn’t a U.S. citizen, filing jointly after a virtual wedding can get a little complicated—but it’s entirely possible. You may need ITINs or to declare worldwide income. For more help, visit our Immigration Support page. You can also consult IRS resources for international couples.
What If You Need Certified Translations or Name Changes?
If your certificate or supporting documents are in another language, the IRS (and many state agencies) require certified translations. And if you’re changing your name post-Zoom wedding, our U.S. Name Change Kit can help make the process hassle-free.
Steps to Make Sure Your Online Marriage is Tax-Ready
- Check the recognition of your online marriage in your state
- Update your Social Security record and employer info if you change your name
- Decide whether you’ll file jointly or separately (see IRS Publication 501)
- Have digital and physical copies of your online marriage certificate ready
Beware of Common Pitfalls for Virtual Couples
Don’t forget to tell your HR department, insurance company, or accountant about your virtual marriage status. Failing to do so can lead to delays or complications with tax refunds or benefits. For a simple explanation of the process for getting married virtually, check out our guide.
FAQs About Online Marriages and Taxes
- Q: Is an online marriage legal for filing taxes jointly?
A: Yes! As long as your online wedding was lawfully conducted, you’re considered married by the IRS. - Q: Can we get our online marriage certificate apostilled?
A: Absolutely. Use our Apostille Questionnaire to start your application. - Q: What if our marriage documents are in another language?
A: The IRS requires certified English translations, available through our Certified Translations service. - Q: How fast can we get our online marriage certificate?
A: With Virtual Same Day Marriage, you can get legally married and receive your certificate in as little as 24 hours!
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether this is your first virtual marriage tax season or you’re planning ahead, we’re here to make things as simple as possible. If you have any questions about online weddings, Zoom marriages, or filing your taxes as a newly married couple, contact us today! We’re excited to help you start your new lives—on every level!
