By Vincent Hicks, CPA

Q: I’m unmarried – does it really matter if I file as Head of Household instead of Single?

A: Yes, it can make a huge difference!

For 2024, the standard deduction is $21,900 for Head of Household vs. $14,600 for Single , a $7,300 advantage. Plus, you get wider tax brackets, meaning more income is taxed at lower rates.

To qualify, you must:

• Be unmarried (or considered unmarried) at year-end
• Pay over half the cost of your home
• Have a qualifying dependent who lived with you for over half the year

Here’s what many miss:

If your child is away at college, the IRS treats that as a temporary absence, so they may still count as living with you. That means you may still qualify for Head of Household status, even if they weren’t home most of the year.

Also, if your child is a dependent under age 17, you may qualify for the Child Tax Credit – worth up to $2,000 in 2024.

Have questions about your filing status?

I’d be happy to help. I’m Vincent Hicks, CPA, based in Somerville with over 20 years of experience. Reach out at vhicksconnect@gmail.com or (859) 553-0788.

Disclaimer: This column provides general tax information and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Tax laws change frequently, and individual circumstances vary. For personalized guidance, consult a tax professional.