Itemization for Iowa state return

Forum|Forum|6 years ago
March 17, 2020
1 reply
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My husband and I file as married filing separately. We both took the standard deduction on our Federal returns. I want to itemize on my Iowa return but TurboTax only allows me to take the standard deduction. It asks me if my husband is taking the standard state deduction. When i answer Yes, TurboTax forces me to take the standard deduction. When i answer no, my itemized deductions get applied. Does IA require both spouses to choose the same filing status like the Federal level or is there a problem with the program?

Best answer by KathrynG3

Yes, Iowa requires both spouses to choose the same deductions option when filing separately. Either both itemize or both claim the standard deduction.

See top of page 8 of the 2019 Iowa Individual Income Tax Expanded Instructions: If one spouse itemizes deductions, then both spouses must itemize deductions, even if separate Iowa returns are filed.

Begin on page 44 for deduction instructions.

KathrynG3Answer

Level 14

Yes, Iowa requires both spouses to choose the same deductions option when filing separately. Either both itemize or both claim the standard deduction.

Begin on page 44 for deduction instructions.