Is it better to file jointly or seperately? .

[bmeservy]

I calculated both options, and it calculated that we would get a better return if we filed seperately.  This surprised me.  And kindof worries me.  I don't want to file seperately, if we don't end up getting the best return or if it messes our taxes up another way

[DanielV01 · Accepted solution]

It's legal to do either.  Most get greater tax benefits filing joint, but there are rare occasions when this is not the case.  Please see the following FAQ:  https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3288477

Before you file, though, remember that you could be seeing the result for just one of you with a Separate filing, and when you combine the two, the result may not be what you thought.  In addition, make sure the filing status is not Head of Household unless you were living apart the last 6 months of the year.  And if you live in a community property state (also in the FAQ), it is even more complicated.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't file separately, but you'll want to weigh all of this in before you do.