I have a non-resident foreign spouse. What are the exact steps to fill out my taxes properly?

I am trying to do it Married filing jointly, but I have read many different things online. I am very confused at this point. Some of the things I've read said I would need a statement from her, while others just said I needed a W-7 with a copy of her passport. I have also read some information saying I would need to fill out a foreign income exclusion form. Please Help. Any help would be appreciated. Thank You.I have a non-resident foreign spouse. What are the exact steps to fill out my taxes properly?
If your spouse lives in another country and has income, your 3 choices are:





1. MFJ. Report worldwide income for both of you. Exclude hers if eligible with form 2555 (nothing for housing). You need a letter signed by her stating that she wishes to be treated as if she is a US resident for tax purposes. You also need a W-7 signed by her and a US notarized copy of her passport page.





2. MFS. Report only your income. Claim her exemption if she has $0 USA income. Still needs W-7 signed by her and US-notarized passport page.





3. MFS. Report only your income. Do not claim anything for her. Leave SSN field blank, attach note saying she is NRA and mail your tax return to service center. It will be processed.I have a non-resident foreign spouse. What are the exact steps to fill out my taxes properly?
Non Resident tax planning is a big job in itself. There are different elections available for you to file as a resident US return. Try contacting 210-248-3397 for getting some help. There is no charge till a return is filed.