I think I should file separate returns

[mmdeangelo]

My return dropped 4000 when I added a spouse

[bluedeb · Accepted solution]

Usually filing as Married Filing Joint is the better filing status, but there are times when filing separate is better.

You can get a quick idea of what filing status would be better for you by using TurboTax's TaxCaster, enter your information as Married Filing Joint, then enter each of your own information as Married Filing Separate
https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/calculators/taxcaster/

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Married Filing Joint vs. Married Filing Separately

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3288477

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When Married Filing Separately Will Save You Taxes

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/tax-tips/Family/When-Married-Filing-Separately-Will-Save-You-T...