Julian Thomas: Waiter or Tax Expert? Julian Thomas, who is single, goes to graduate school part-time and works as a waiter at the Bay Grill in San Francisco. During 2018, his gross income was $20,700 in wages and tips. He has decided to prepare his own tax return because he cannot afford the services of a tax expert. After preparing his return, he comes to you for advice. Here's a summary of the figures that he has prepared thus far: Gross income: Wages: $14,500 Tips: 18,200 Adjusted gross income (AGI): $22,700 Less: Standard deduction: $12,000 Taxable income: $8,700 Julian believes that if an individual's income falls below $23,000, the federal government considers him or her "poor" and allows both itemized deductions and a standard deduction. He has found $2,300 in potential itemized deductions. Critical Thinking Questions 1. Calculate Julian Thomas' taxable income. 2. Discuss Julian's errors in interpreting the tax laws, and explain the difference between itemized deductions and the standard deduction. 3. Julian has been dating Elizabeth Moore for nearly 4 years, and they are seriously thinking about getting married. Elizabeth has income that is identical to Julian's. How much tax would they pay as a married couple (using the filing status of married filing jointly and a standard deduction of $24,000) versus the total amount the two would pay as single persons (each using the filing status of single)? Strictly from a tax perspective, does it make any difference whether Julian and Elizabeth stay single or get married? Explain.