Not sure why you want to switch to the filing status that is usually the worst way to file----but....
If you are going to file married filing separately, you and your spouse each have to file your own returns, so that will be TWO returns. TWO separate TurboTax accounts and user ID's and two fees--one for each of you.
Click your name in My Info and go through the screens. When it asks if you were married in 2023 say YES. Then it will ask if you want to file together with your spouse. Say NO.
Next you will be prompted to enter information for your spouse---name, date of birth, SSN. That is because the IRS cross checks both returns when you file MFS to make sure you are both following all the strict rules for that filing status. Your spouse will do the same thing on their return -- they will have to enter information about YOU.
It will ask if you will be using standard deduction or itemized deductions---because when you file MFS you both have to file the same way. Either you both use standard deduction or you both itemize deductions--even if one of you is disadvantaged by the forced use of itemizing.
If you are in a community property state it becomes more complicated.
Community property states: AZ, CA, ID, LA, NV, NM, TX, WA, WI)
If you were legally married at the end of 2023 your filing choices are married filing jointly or married filing separately.
Married Filing Jointly is usually better, even if one spouse had little or no income. When you file a joint return, you and your spouse will get the married filing jointly standard deduction of $27,700 (+$1500 for each spouse 65 or older) You are eligible for more credits including education credits, earned income credit, child and dependent care credit, and a larger income limit to receive the child tax credit.
If you choose to file married filing separately, both spouses have to file the same way—either you both itemize or you both use standard deduction. Your tax rate will be higher than on a joint return.
Some of the special rules for filing separately include: you cannot get earned income credit, education credits, adoption credits, or deductions for student loan interest. A higher percent of your Social Security benefits may be taxable. Your limit for SALT (state and local taxes and sales tax) will be only $5000 per spouse. In many cases you will not be able to take the child and dependent care credit. The amount you can contribute to a retirement account will be affected. If you live in a community property state, you will be required to provide additional information regarding your spouse’s income. ( Community property states: AZ, CA, ID, LA, NV, NM, TX, WA, WI)
If you are using online TurboTax to prepare your returns, you will need to prepare two separate returns and pay twice since with online, you get one return per fee.
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894449-married-filing-jointly-vs-married-filing-separately
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1901162-married-filing-separately-in-community-property-states
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894449-is-it-better-for-a-married-couple-to-file-jointly-or-separ...
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
