Form Schedule 1-A

[shirlandron]

If a prepare a married filing joint return the schedule 1-A appears under forms.  When preparing a married filing separately the schedule 1-A  is not there.  I usually file separately because it is beneficial for my state filing.  Help please!   

[rjs]

None of the deductions on Schedule 1-A are allowed for married filing separately, except the deduction for car loan interest. In order to claim the deduction for tips, for overtime, or for seniors you must file jointly if you are married.

The loss of eligibility for many deductions and credits is one of main reasons that filing jointly usually works out better. With the changes in the new tax law, you might find that you are now better off overall if you file jointly, even if it increases your state tax.

[CatinaT1 · Accepted solution]

The reason Schedule 1-A is gone when you select Married Filing Separately (MFS) is because the deductions this form is used for are generally only available to taxpayers who file using the Married Filing Jointly (MFJ). 

Schedule 1-A is used to claim: 

• Deduction for qualified tip income.
• Deduction for qualified overtime pay.
• Deduction for car loan interest on a U.S.-assembled vehicle.
• Enhanced deduction for seniors (age 65+).

All except the deduction for car loan interest require you to file jointly.

You don't mention your state, but you may be able to file your Federal return jointly and your State return as Married Filing Separately. Each state has different filing status requirements.

@shirlandron 

[VolvoGirl]

For anyone....Most of the items on Schedule 1-A you have to file Joint if married.  Here is a screen shot of IRS Schedule 1-A