I am still legally married but have been separated for over a year. Is it best for me to file single or married filing separate?

Forum|Forum|7 years ago
June 1, 2019
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Best answer by DanielV01

It depends. If you qualify, you may be able to file as Head of Household if you have a qualifying dependent. See the following FAQ: https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/4206137

If after reading that FAQ you determine that you qualify for Head of Household, that is probably your most advantageous filing status. (Note: you have to have been apart from your ex since at least July 1 or before to qualify). If you do not qualify, then, if you are legally separated (court decree, not just simply living apart) you can file single if you have no dependent.. If that doesn't apply then your next option is to file Married Filing Joint (if you can reconcile enough to file together). Your last option is Married Filing Separately if the other statuses are not available to you. It usually is the least advantageous because it does not allow for a number of credits and deductions.

DanielV01Answer

Level 15

It depends. If you qualify, you may be able to file as Head of Household if you have a qualifying dependent. See the following FAQ: https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/4206137

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