Can Bridget claim qualifying widow(er) status after her husband's passing?

Bridget can claim qualifying widow(er) status, which is a tax filing status available to a surviving spouse under certain conditions. This status allows for tax benefits similar to those of married filing jointly, making it easier for the surviving spouse to manage their finances and reduce their tax liability after the death of their partner.

To qualify for this status, Bridget must meet specific criteria: she must not have remarried and must have a dependent child living with her. Additionally, she must have been eligible to file a joint return with her deceased spouse for the year of the spouse's death. This status can be claimed for up to two years following the year of the spouse's death, as long as she continues to meet the necessary requirements, such as having a qualifying dependent.

The other options do not align with the criteria for qualifying widow(er) status. While it’s true that such a status can be claimed for the year of the spouse’s death, it can extend beyond just that year for two additional years if the conditions are met. Thus, the correct understanding is that Bridget is indeed eligible for this status, allowing her to benefit from the associated tax advantages during a challenging time.