Filing married separate versus jointly

Yolanda, They won't find you to be liable per se but since California is a community property state you may find that your community assets are subject to collection.  The most direct example of this will be an offset of any tax refund you are to receive.  This means the State of IRS will use the refund to pay down the existing liability of your husband. Another problem your husband's liability may create is that your bank account and possibly your wages will be subject to collection action -- levies.  This is because once you marry, absent a prenuptial agreement, half of your income is considered your husband's and can be used to satisfy his premarital tax liability. The best method of preventing collection action is to have your husband reach a resolution such as Installment Agreement or Offer in Compromise. Best regards, Adam Brewer 1-888-351-3707