Two single individuals are considering getting married but want to consider their tax situation before making a choice. Person $1$ earns $$71,000$ per year. Person $2$ earns $$41,000$ per year. Are they better off getting married or staying single? Consider income taxes, social security taxes, and Medicare taxes when forming your answer. Don't just guess! Solve for their taxes and compare. $($This question is worth double$)$

a$.$ Compared to staying single, their combined taxes will be higher if they get married and file jointly.

b$.$ Compared to staying single, their combines taxes will be lower if they get married and file jointly.

c$.$ There is no difference; single or married, they will pay the same combined taxes.