Can my wife and I file a different status on our state return than we do on our federal return? We get a much larger state return by filing separately on same return for state.

clayton-williams · ‎June 6, 2019

DanielV01 · ‎June 6, 2019

Yes, you may. I know of two states that have this filing status, Arkansas and Kentucky. It is not only legal but encouraged for a married couple to file married filing separately on a combined return, especially when both of you have income. This way, you each get at least the standard deduction and also (potentially) a lower tax bracket for your separate incomes. This is because these two states do not have a separate tax table for joint filers. So, if this is your situation, you are absolutely correct to file separately on a combined return.

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DanielV01 · ‎June 6, 2019

Yes, you may. I know of two states that have this filing status, Arkansas and Kentucky. It is not only legal but encouraged for a married couple to file married filing separately on a combined return, especially when both of you have income. This way, you each get at least the standard deduction and also (potentially) a lower tax bracket for your separate incomes. This is because these two states do not have a separate tax table for joint filers. So, if this is your situation, you are absolutely correct to file separately on a combined return.

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**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"

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clayton-williams · ‎June 6, 2019

Exactly what I was looking for. I am in Arkansas, so this fits for me. Thank You!

DanielV01 · ‎June 6, 2019

Your more than welcome.

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Can my wife and I file a different status on our state return than we do on our federal return? We get a much larger state return by filing separately on same return for state.