How to calculate/split the 1098 Mortgage interest and property taxes?

[sunnywheat]

my girlfriend and I bought a home together, I got the 1098, my name was listed first. I pay her half of what the mortgage will cost and she pays it in full from her bank, so it probably looks like she's paying it all. Would I have to enter anything in regarding the 1098 if I don't pay the mortgage directly? and secondly, if I do have to enter something in, would it be simply splitting the mortgage interest and property tax numbers by half?

It appears that when the mortgage interest is divided among two people we would have to attach some written explanation, is this possible to do with TurboTax? and can it still be efiled? 

Thank you!

[Fern · Accepted solution]

Each of you should deduct the amount of mortgage interest that you actually paid.  In preparing your tax return, you would indicate that the amount of interest you are reporting is not what was sent on your 1098.  See screenshot below.
You do not need to attach a written explanation for the difference. You should have documentation to support your deduction kept with your tax papers.

Your girlfriend would indicate that she did not receive a 1098 and enter her share of the mortgage interest. See screenshot below.

[sunnywheat]

Ahh so that is what that box is for. so even if i don't pay the mortgage directly, does this still count if I give my girlfriend money?

[Fern]

Yes.  It still counts fi you give your girlfriend the money.

[sunnywheat]

sorry another quick question, are the property taxes split between us as well? thank you for your help.

[nicholasthai]

Did you ever get an answer on whether or not the property taxes are split as well?

[alzuel]

Would you basically split everything in half including what the outstanding mortgage as well?

[DaveF1006]

The outstanding mortgage would remain the same because this is only reported in case if there is a mortgage limitation limiting the interest if the mortgage balance goes over a certain threshold.  Everything else is split though.

[Jennifers004]

 both our nanes are on the form, but its my ssn listed. He pays 100% of the mortgage. Would I put zeros for interest, MIP, and property taxes and put the the full of remaining balance? Then put in the full amount listed for interest, MIP, and property taxes for him? 

[FangxiaL]

Per the Instructions for Payer/Borrower with the Form 1098, each borrower is entitled to deduct only the amount each borrower paid and points paid by the sell that represent each borrower's share of the amount allowable as a deduction.