According to California law, what filing status must Registered Domestic Partners (RDP) use for their income tax returns?

Registered Domestic Partners (RDP) in California have specific regulations governing their income tax filing status. According to California law, RDPs are treated similarly to married couples for state tax purposes. This means that they can choose to file their taxes either as married filing jointly or married filing separately, depending on their financial circumstances and personal preferences.

The option indicating either single or married filing jointly is correct because California allows RDPs to select their filing status based on how they wish to manage their taxes. RDPs may opt for the single status if they choose not to be taxed as a married couple, but they must comply with the rules that govern RDPs, including community property laws. Ultimately, the flexibility in choosing between these two statuses provides RDPs with options similar to traditional marriage, establishing the foundation for the correct answer.