If filing married separate. do we both need to file the same deduction? i.e itemized or standard? we do not live together.

Yes, you both must use either the standard deduction or the itemized deduction when completing your tax returns separately.

Your standard deduction is zero and you should itemize any deductions you have if your filing status is married filing separately, and your spouse itemizes deductions on his/her return.

You can both use standard deduction.