@karinm1971 You seem intent on making a comparison with a click or two. You cannot do that effectively. There are so many variations especially for MFS. If the two of you plan to itemize, you have to decide who is using which deduction--or whether you are each using 50% of each deduction--or splitting the deductions some other way. The software cannot read your mind and know how you and your spouse will divvy up your mortgage interest, property tax, medical expenses, charity donations, etc. unless you tell the software. It does not have to be 50-50 unless you are in a community property state. If you have dependents--which one of you is claiming the dependents?
At least with the CD/download you can use "what if" if you just want it split down the middle and you will get a rough idea. If you really want accurate results you prepare the joint return and a separate return for each spouse following all of the rules especially the rule regarding itemizing/using standard deduction.
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
