If two people take the standard deduction, that's $6,350 x 2 = $12,700. So how is filing jointly as a married couple better?

esal1999 · ‎June 6, 2019

As a benefit of filing jointly, Turbo Tax website states "In 2017, married filing separately taxpayers only receive a standard deduction of $6,350 compared to the $12,700 offered to those who filed jointly." Isn't it the same thing, though? If two people take the standard deduction, that's $6,350 x 2 = $12,700. Same thing. I don't get it. (Source: https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/marriage/should-you-and-your-spouse-file-taxes-jointly-or-separ...)

kerriP · ‎June 6, 2019

It is not the standard deduction that causes MFS to be disadvantageous. When you file Married Filling Separate (MFS) there are several disadvantages

Lost Credits- By Law-MFS- No Earned Income Credit

No Credit for elderly and disabled

No Dependent care credit

No adoption credit

No Education Credits or Education deductions

If one spouse itemizes, so must the other spouse.

A greater percentage of Social Security Benefits taxable

IRA deductions, Passive Activity Losses. and others.

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esal1999 · ‎June 6, 2019

That was very clear. Turbo Tax should try to be just as clear with the info on its website. Thank you!

If two people take the standard deduction, that's $6,350 x 2 = $12,700. So how is filing jointly as a married couple better?

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