What is Form 8958?
Form 8958 is a tax form designed for married couples or registered domestic partners in community property states, such as Arizona, California, and Texas, to allocate their income when filing separate tax returns. This form ensures that income is divided fairly according to community property laws, which treat most income and assets as jointly owned. By using Form 8958, couples can avoid confusion and ensure accurate tax reporting, making the filing process smoother and more compliant with state regulations.What is Form 8958 used for?
Form 8958 is essential for those in community property states. Here's what it's used for:
- Allocate income: Divides income between spouses or partners when filing separately.
- List individual sources: Reports total income from each source and the allocated portion for each person.
- Attach additional information: Allows for a statement detailing the sources and allocated amounts if necessary.
How to fill out Form 8958?
- 1
Gather both your and your spouse's W-2s and any community income.
- 2
Identify community or separate income and deductions on separate lines.
- 3
Report half of all community income and your separate income on Form 8958.
- 4
Allocate total amounts from each source to each spouse, listing the source and totals.
- 5
Attach a statement with your name and SSN if necessary, ensuring it is included at the end of your return.
- 6
Ensure Social Security numbers are included for each spouse in Columns B and C.
Who is required to fill out Form 8958?
Married couples and registered domestic partners (RDPs) residing in community property states must complete Form 8958. This is essential for properly allocating individual incomes when filing separate federal income tax returns.
The form is used by those living in community property states such as Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin to ensure accurate reporting of their income on tax returns.



