Need advice on Taxes?

Question

I have been seperated from my husband since Jun. I was just wondering when I do my taxes if we file seperately and if so what way do I file? I have a son. If I file by myself do I file single, head of household, or do we have to file married filing seperately. Any help will be greatly appreciated, and Happy Holidays to all.

Answer 1

That depends. If you are still married, you can always file a joint return. That will usually result in the least tax burden over all.

If you can't agree on filing a joint return, you may be able to file as Head of Household. If you lived apart from your spouse for the entire last half of the year (July 1, 2007 onwards) and paid more than half the cost of maintaining a household that included your minor child you may file as HoH. That's the next best option, at least for you. (Your spouse would have to file Married Filing Separately.)

If you don't qualify for HoH, your ONLY remaining option would be Married Filing Separately. Since you are still legally married, neither your nor your spouse may file as Single.

Answer 2

Since you have been separated for the last six months and if you maintain a home, file "Head of Household". Make sure that your husband does not spend a few days and nights with you because of the holidays or you can not file as Head of Household. You can file as Head of Household because you have been separated for the last six months, maintain a residence and have a qualifying child living with you.

Answer 3

Head of Household will give you the best rates, assuming you file seperately from your husband. However, filing WITH your husband is the best thing you can do purely on a financial basis because it's even better tax rates than head of household, given your situation.

Answer 4

If you and your husband file separate returns neither of you will get the $1,000 tax credit for your child. It will be worthwhile to mend your fences a bit and file a joint return.