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Tassiewalker1(I'm new)I'm new
14 May 2024

I have been with my partner for nearly 8 years, but have only just moved in together. For the first 8 years of our relationship we lived separately in our own parent’s houses. Since December 2023 my partner has moved out into their own house, and I have spent a lot of time there (including contributing to expenses) but have not lived there. As of May 2024 I have officially moved into my partner’s house.


As I will now be declaring my partner as a spouse on tax returns, should I state them being my spouse as the date we moved in together, or include the time where I have stayed with them and contributed to bills?

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3 replies
945 views
3 replies

Most helpful response

Most helpful reply

RileyATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator
14 May 2024

Hi there @Tassiewalker1,


Our definition of a spouse is someone you're:

  • in a relationship with that's registered under a prescribed state or territory law (e.g. marriage),
  • not legally married to but lived with you on a genuine domestic basis in a relationship as a couple.

So you'd include the dates that you were living together.


For more info about Spouse details and your tax return check out our article.

All replies

Most helpful reply

RileyATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator
14 May 2024

Hi there @Tassiewalker1,


Our definition of a spouse is someone you're:

  • in a relationship with that's registered under a prescribed state or territory law (e.g. marriage),
  • not legally married to but lived with you on a genuine domestic basis in a relationship as a couple.

So you'd include the dates that you were living together.


For more info about Spouse details and your tax return check out our article.

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Should I include my spouse in tax return? | ATO Community