turbo tax seems to be applying the rule for both of us covered by work retirement plans even though only one of us has a retirement plan. the IRS rules clearly state if there is only one work retirement plan then the MAGI limit for for deduction is $230k which we are under.
Check your spouse's W-2 to see if the box 'covered by a retirement plan' is checked. If it is checked, but no contributions have been made, it still qualifies as being covered by a retirement plan at work.
However, the box does not have to be explicitly checked in order for TurboTax to determine that someone is covered by a retirement plan at work. Take a look at items reported in box 12 of the W-2. If there are deferrals into a retirement plan reported in box 12, then you are also considered to be covered by a retirement plan.
we only have one w2. spouse that is not covered by a work retirement plan has no w2 uploaded.