How to File Taxes on Spousal Social Security Benefits
- 1). Open a web browser and navigate to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website for forms and instructions. Enter 1040-A in the Find text box and click "Find." Download form 1040-A and the instructions for completing form 1040-A by clicking links "Form 1040-A" and "Inst 1040-A." Print the form and the instructions.
- 2). Review the instructions for completing form 1040-A and begin entering the required information. This information will include the total income from wages, annuity payments, and Social Security benefits for you and your spouse. At line 14a of form 1040-A, enter the total amount of Social Security benefits your spouse received as stated on form SSA-1099.
- 3). Complete the Social Security Benefits Worksheet on page 29 of the instructions. This worksheet will indicate if your spouse's Social Security benefits are taxable and the amount that is taxable. Enter the taxable amount calculated on the worksheet in Line 14b on form 1040-A.
- 4). Fill in the remaining information as required for form 1040-A. This information will include totals from other taxable income sources and applicable tax deductions. After entering all relevant information, complete the form and determine if you are owed a refund or are required to make a payment to the IRS for taxes owed.
- 5). Sign form 1040-A and submit to the IRS along with all required supporting documentation, including form SSA-1099. If you are required to make a payment to the IRS, you have the option to submit a check or money order with your tax return or pay by credit card online.