Can I change my filing status every year to see which gives me the most in return?

[psomboun1]

I'm married and we usually file jointly but we owe EVERY YEAR. I filed separately last year and actually got a return! Is this ok to do ?

[MollsBBU · Accepted solution]

This is fine. File separately if you were married or separated and want to file separate tax returns. Couples often choose this option because they have a sizable difference in income. But, it is your choice. When you are legally married, you have the option to choose between filing jointly or separately.

[psomboun1]

So its ok to switch filing status from year to year?  i.e. 2013 MFJ /2014 MFS/ 2015 MFJ: Seems to be more beneficial.

[MollsBBU]

Yes. You may choose to file however is most beneficial to you for that tax year. However, amendments are different. If you ever make a mistake and have to file an amendment, you can amend a return to change from married filling separate to married filing joint but not from married filing joint to married filing separate. So, once you file a joint return you can not change it to a separate return. See more under Step 4: <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/tax-tips/General-Tax-Tips/How-to-Change-Your-Tax-Filing-Status...>

[tnbieber]

No this is not okay. If you were audited and the IRS say that you were actually married you would be in big trouble. This is illegal.