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MarriageWhat is a Husband or Wife? The IRS Is Ready to Answer

November 17, 2015

24175-same sex marraige

In the aftermath of the Supreme Court decision recognizing same-sex marriage, same-sex marriage has become the law of the land.

Federal laws and regulation are now being promulgated to effectuate recognition of same-sex marriage. In proposed regulations, the IRS has defined the terms “husband” and “wife” to be an individual lawfully married to another individual.   A “husband and wife” refers to two individuals lawfully married to each other, regardless of gender.

The IRS drew a distinction between marriage and other same-sex relationships such as domestic partnerships and civil unions.  The later will be not accorded marital status.

According to the proposed regulations:

Some couples have chosen to enter into a civil union or registered domestic partnership even when they could have married, and some couples who are in a civil union or registered domestic partnership have chosen not to convert those relationships into a marriage even when they have had the opportunity to do so. In many cases, this choice was deliberate, and couples who enter into civil unions or registered domestic partnerships may have done so with the expectation that their relationship will not be treated as a marriage for purposes of federal law.

Bottom line, the IRS will recognize the marital status of a couple, without regard to gender, if parties have legally wed.   Relationships lacking the formality of marriage will not enjoy its legal benefits of marriage for among other things for income tax purposes and estate planning.

The information contained in this website has been provided for general informational purposes only and DOES NOT constitute legal advice; there is no warranty on this information and it does not in any way constitute an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. All individuals are encouraged to seek independent counsel for advice regarding their specific situation and facts. 

THIS SITE SHOULD NOT BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR COMPETENT AND INDEPENDENT LEGAL ADVICE.

Further, e-mails or other correspondence with any member of this firm does not create an attorney-client relationship without the explicit written agreement between the parties

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