Is separate assessment more expensive than joint?

No. With separate assessment each of you pays your own tax. Unused credits and band can still move between you at the end of the year, so the total is the same. Being taxed as two single people can cost more.

Can we have the Home Carer Tax Credit and the bigger band?

No. A couple taxed together can claim the Home Carer Tax Credit or the second-earner band increase, not both in the same year. This calculator shows which saves more.

What happens in the year we get married?

You're taxed as two single people for that year. After it ends, you can claim back the extra for the months you were married. The wedding month counts as a full month.

Couples

Joint, separate or single assessment

Compare the income tax a married couple or civil partners pay under each basis, the Home Carer Tax Credit, and the year-of-marriage refund.

Self-assessment tool. The figures come from your own answers. It isn't advice, and you're responsible for what you file or claim. heypenny.ie is a trading name of Kinch Press. Read the disclaimer.

Common questions

Is separate assessment more expensive than joint?: No. With separate assessment each of you pays your own tax. Unused credits and band can still move between you at the end of the year, so the total is the same. Being taxed as two single people can cost more.
Can we have the Home Carer Tax Credit and the bigger band?: No. A couple taxed together can claim the Home Carer Tax Credit or the second-earner band increase, not both in the same year. This calculator shows which saves more.
What happens in the year we get married?: You're taxed as two single people for that year. After it ends, you can claim back the extra for the months you were married. The wedding month counts as a full month.

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