Cedar Rapids Gazette in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Working couples testify on tax costs of marriage

A House tax committee heard that marriage penalties in the income tax system push couples toward divorce or living apart to save money. Angela and David Boyter of Maryland described years of marriage and separation to avoid higher taxes, citing potential lifetime penalties exceeding six figures. Analysts noted proposed options including separate returns or a marriage credit, while the administration deferred tax-cut plans until the budget balances.