I am getting married in June, but my fiance and I were throwing around the idea about going to town hall to get a marriage license before the end of the year (12/31/12), but still having the ceremony in June. We were not sure if it would benefit us when we do our taxes if we file a joint return for 2012 taxes. I made $41,000 and she made $32,000 in 2012. I own a 2 family house and get rent and am paying off a student loan for grad school for myself. Would is be smart to get married for the tax credit, or would it make a difference if we file separately this year?