If I Itemize my deductions can I use those on my form and then my wife takes standard deductions on her return
2007-01-28 03:11:10 · 5 answers · asked by John d 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Taxes ➔ United States
Short answer: NO.
If you file 'Married filing Separately' and one of you itemizes, both of you must itemize. The standard deduction for 'Married filing Separately' if your spouse itemizes is $0.
2007-01-28 04:50:24 · answer #1 · answered by STEVEN F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No! If you file separate returns and itemize your deductions your spouse MUST also itemize her deductions even if it results in higher tax for her.
For this and many other reasons it is almost always better for you to file a joint return. I don't know why you have decided to file separate returns but you will usually pay much less tax by filing jointly.
Furthermore, if you are otherwise eligible for the EITC you MUST file a joint return to claim it.
2007-01-28 04:23:49 · answer #2 · answered by Bostonian In MO 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you file as married filing separately, and you itemize, then your wife can't take the standard deduction, she has to itemize also. F
For married filing separately, either both people have to itemize or both have to take the standard deduction. The standard deduction for married filing separately is half of that for joint returns.
There are a number of credits also that you're not eligible for if you file as married filing separately. EIC is one of them.
2007-01-28 04:09:35 · answer #3 · answered by Judy 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
No each spouse has to itemize deductions if you file separately. Or each of you can take the standard deduction. You can't have it both ways.
2007-01-28 03:30:27 · answer #4 · answered by spicertax 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
yes as long as you BOTH file, married filing seperate, if this is a marital issue involved, also make sure to let your prep person know you want to file a injured spouse releif form, this covers your butt if you file proper and she messes up, the IRS will acknowledge your seperated issues. If this is just for a tax break, take it to a professional, or do e-file, I found one that does all the forms and math, you only answer the questions the screen asks. It was under 45 dollars and I filed a dozen different forms, they have a 99% accuracy rate and have IRS support. The site is: www.easyfile.com I visited 5 sites that were confusing and of NO help with the questions I had, this one is a no brainer as long as you read the questions.
2007-01-28 03:22:33 · answer #5 · answered by rainwater 3 · 0⤊ 4⤋