Make sure you choose the correct filing status for your situation. Your filing status determines a number of tax benefits, so making a mistake here can affect the earned income tax credit, child tax credit, and dependent exemptions. There are five filing statuses: single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) with dependent child. The IRS recommends Publication 501 to determine the filing status that best fits your needs.
Source: IRS.gov