Married filing separately in community property state - question

The rule for 2017, is for married filing separately, you only have to report taxes if you make over $4050.  Let’s say you are in a community property state, I think that means husband and wife split 50/50 of the income.  So let’s say husband makes $7000, does he still have to file taxes?  Does that mean he actually made $7000 or does it mean he technically made $3500 and doesn’t have to file taxes (and wife gets the other $3500)?

MarilynG
Expert Alumni

Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Look at the Federal Filing Requirements first.  If you husband had earned income of $7000 he would be required to file.

Here's more info:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3302274

The State interview in TurboTax for a community property state will help you split income.  Usually 'earned income' will belong to the person that earned it.  Unearned income (like interest) may be split 50/50.  

Here's instructions to help you:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3301943

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post
**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"

Get your taxes done using TurboTax

@TurboTaxMarilynG the entire $7000 is social security money from gov.  No other income.  So is SSA money considered earned income and this means he has to file (married filing separately) over $4050?

@TurboTaxMarilynG do you know if the wife's 50% portion of her husband's SSA money, count as income for her?
MarilynG
Expert Alumni

Get your taxes done using TurboTax

If this is his only income, he is not required to file.  It is not considered 'earned income' for anyone.
**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post
**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"