Child credit

[hedgeall]

We're a married couple, have been filing tax separately. Had we filled jointly, my spouse would be paying way too much toward her student role. Now, we have a baby and not sure if we should file tax together. Can you please advise as to how I should do my due diligence? 

[EleanoreS]

Good day hedgeall,

Congratulations on your baby !  This is an exciting time. Here is link to tax information regarding the addition of a child. 

I am not sure from your question if your spouse's loan repayment amount is being based off earnings reported on a tax return or if loan arrears are being recovered from their tax refund.  

If your spouse's loan repayment is being based of earnings reported on a tax return, you would have to assess if it still makes sense to file separate as there are credits and benefits available when you have a child to claim.  Some are reduced or eliminated when you file married separate.

If your spouse's refund is being applied to outstanding student loan debt, you can file married joint and include Form 8379  to claim Injured Spouse status and still receive your portion the refund on the return.  If that is the case; be sure to show all child related benefits as belonging to the injured spouse. 

Thank you for reaching out to the TurboTax Community.