Common Question: Why isn't my marriage certificate good enough to prove my spouse is my spouse?
The marriage certificate proves that a marriage occurred. However, it does not validate that you are still married. We ask for your most recently filed tax documentation to verify that the relationship still existed (at the time of the tax filing).
Accepted documents:
- 1040 form
- e-file confirmation page
- Tax preparer's summary
- federal return recap
- Telefile
- Tax return transcript
- Extension form
Documentation must show:
- Married filing jointly
- Married filing separately
Whether the tax form is yours or your spouse's, the relationship must be clear - either your spouse's name on your forms or your name on your spouse's forms.
Please redact any financial information and all but the last four-digits of the social security numbers on the form(s).
Handwritten forms are not accepted.
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If you were married in the current tax year, your spouse would not be on your most recent tax filing. In that situation we accept the marriage certificate or online marriage record showing your name, your spouse's name and the date of the marriage. We'll also need an Affidavit of Eligible Spouse. Call our customer service line (518-283-8500 option 4) to request this form.
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Understandably, situations evolve and your marital status could change after that tax filing. If you are going through a separation or divorce, please indicate that on the audit verification form when submitting your documentation.