Is it better to file separately if your spouse made alot more income than you?

[ncarini1]

My spouse made 59000 and I made 26000 should we file separate?

[DoninGA]

It is almost always better, other than a very few limited circumstances, to file as Married Filing Jointly other than separately.  Even if one spouse has little or no income you will come out much better on your tax return when filing jointly.

[MayaD]

As DoninGA mentioned, it is almost always better to file jointly. 

When you file separately, your tax rate is higher and you won't be able to claim:

• Education benefits
• Earned Income Credit (EIC) (usually)
• Child and Dependent Care Credit (usually)
• Adoption Credit (usually)
• Premium Tax Credit (usually)
• The standard deduction if your spouse is claiming itemized deductions
• The full benefit for itemized deductions, the Child Tax Credit, and capital losses (you'll get only half compared to married filing jointly)

For more information check: Is it better for a married couple to file jointly or separately?