I accidentally filed as single but meant to file married filing separately

[xmasbaby0]

If the e-file was accepted, you will need to wait for your return to be fully processed and then amend to correct your filing status.   And when you file married filing separately, there are some rules to follow.   Both spouses must file the same way---either you both use standard deduction or you both itemized.  It cannot be one of each.  Each of you is required to enter some information on your own return about your spouse.   If you are in a community property state, it becomes more complicated.

Wait until your original return has been fully processed before you amend, and make sure you have saved a pdf of the original return before you amend. (If you do not save it as a pdf, the amended return will overwrite the original, and the original will be lost forever)

See this TurboTax support FAQ for amending a tax return -

CURRENT YEAR

https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/tax-return/amend-federal-tax-return-curr...

Do not expect quick results from amending. It can take four months or more for the IRS to process an amended return.  

You can watch for information here:

https://www.irs.gov/Filing/Individuals/Amended-Returns-(Form-1040-X)/Wheres-My-Amended-Return-1

[MayaD]

You need to amend your return to change your filing status. 

You can choose: Single if you're unmarried, divorced or legally separated. 

Married filing separately if you're married and don't want to file jointly or find that filing separately lowers your tax.

Filing status

[Oxnyloracxo]

Hi there

Same situation except my husband filed married filing separately first and I haven’t filed yet. If I filed mine married filing together before the deadline, then would the IRS ignore his filing separate and my MFT essentially would replace his return?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[KeshaH]

You would need to amend his return to change the filing status to Married Filing Jointly and add your information. Another return with his name and SSN will be rejected.

[Oxnyloracxo]

Thank you for your reply!! If I did the amendment before the deadline should that be sufficient? Or would I need to file an extension in case the amendment takes longer to process?

[BrittanyS]

You do not need to file an extension.  You need to file the amended return and make the necessary changes.

If you want to make changes or add a document to a tax return that has already been filed and accepted by the taxing agency, you should follow these guidelines. 

• You must first wait until the initial return is completely processed.
• You will have to use the same TurboTax account that you used for the original tax return.
• Once you begin your amendment, you'll see your original return.
• The refund calculator will start new at $0 and only reflect the changes in the refund or tax due
• Only make changes to the areas of your return that need to be corrected.
• You have three years from the date you filed your return or two years after you paid the tax due (whichever is later) to file an amendment

Select your product below and follow the instructions. 

Amend TurboTax Online 

Amend TurboTax CD/Download