Did the couple file a joint tax return last year?

The correct response to whether the couple filed a joint tax return last year should be grounded in the context of their marital status and financial practices. If the couple did not file a joint tax return, it may indicate several possibilities. They could have chosen to file separately due to a variety of personal financial reasons, or perhaps one spouse did not work or earn enough to necessitate filing taxes.

In a marriage-based context, filing a joint return can be a strong indicator of a genuine partnership, as it often reflects shared financial responsibility and intent. However, if they did not file jointly last year, it doesn't necessarily imply any red flags about the validity of the marriage; there are legitimate reasons for separate filings.

Here, understanding the reasons behind their filing decision adds depth to the immigration context, as the couple will need to demonstrate the authenticity of their relationship during the USCIS interview, and tax filing practices are a piece of that puzzle. Other options like "In Progress" or "Not Required" can convey different situations but do not address the primary concern of whether a joint return was actually filed.