Why do I not qualify for 1098-E student loan interest deduction?

[cnally87]

I am married filing separately, but I don't understand the distinction

[GiseleD]

According to IRS.gov:

You can claim the student loan interest deduction if all of the following apply:

• You paid interest on a qualified student loan in tax year 2019;
• You're legally obligated to pay interest on a qualified student loan;
• Your filing status isn't married filing separately;
• Your MAGI is less than a specified amount which is set annually; and
• You or your spouse, if filing jointly, can't be claimed as dependents on someone else's return.

Since you are filing separately, the IRS will not allow you to take this deduction.