Can i file married filing separately

In the vast majority of cases, it's best for married couples to file jointly, but there may be a few instances when it's better to submit separate returns. There are many advantages to filing a joint tax return with your spouse. The IRS gives joint filers one of the largest standard deductions each year, allowing them to deduct a significant amount of their income immediately. Joint filers mostly receive higher income thresholds for certain taxes and deductions—this means they can earn a larger amount of income and potentially qualify for certain tax breaks.

On the other hand, couples who file separately receive few tax considerations. Separate tax returns may give you a higher tax with a higher tax rate. The standard deduction for separate filers is far lower than that offered to joint filers. The best way to find out if you should file jointly or separately with your spouse is to prepare the tax return both ways. Double check your calculations and then look at the net refund or balance due from each method.

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No matter how you file, Block has your back. File with a tax pro File online. Cancel Continue. Under the married filing separately status, each spouse files their own tax return instead of one return jointly. Instead of combining income, each person separately reports income and deductions. Although most married couples file jointly, they can choose the married filing separately status if they want. There are rules to follow for filing separately, though.

If one spouse itemizes instead of taking the standard deduction , for example, the other spouse must itemize, too. Only single people can file single, and their tax brackets are different in some cases from the ones that will apply to you if you're married and filing separately.

Nonetheless, in the right circumstances, being married and filing separately could save you money. Income-based repayment programs generally key off adjusted gross income , or AGI. Generally, you can deduct unreimbursed medical expenses — but only the portion that exceeds 7. Filing separately could make more of those expenses deductible. Alternatively, if the medical bills belong to your spouse, he or she could deduct anything over 7.

If your spouse brought overdue taxes into the relationship, it may be worth choosing the married filing separately status.