The Standard Deduction usually goes up each year.
For 2022 the standard deduction amounts are:
Single 12,950 + 1,750 or 65 and over or blind (14,700)
HOH 19,400 + 1,750 for 65 and over or blind
Joint 25,900 + 1,400 for each 65 and over or blind
Married filing Separate 12,950 + 1,400 for 65 and over or blind
Yes there have always been more benefits to file Joint over MFS.
Here's some things to consider about filing separately……
In the first place you each have to file a separate return, so that's two returns. And if you are using the Online version that means using 2 accounts and paying the fees twice.
Many people think they come out better when filing Married Filing Separate but they are probably doing it wrong. If one person itemizes deductions on Schedule A then the other one must itemize too, even if it's less than the standard deduction, even if it is ZERO! (Business expenses are not itemized deductions. Business goes on Schedule C not A.)
And there are several credits you can't take when filing separately, like the
EITC Earned Income Tax Credit
Child Care Credit
Educational Deductions and Credits
And contributions to IRA and ROTH IRA are limited when you file MFS.
Also if you file Married Filing Separately up to 85`% of your Social Security becomes taxable right away even with zero other income.
See …….