Married filing separate in community property state

[mjm77]

Is there a loophole that I don't know about for married filing separate in a community property state when separated from spouse and their income is unknown?  A few people I know, filed MFS, thru their tax preparer who entered zero for spouse income, etc., and then efiled tax returns which were accepted by IRS/state with no ramifications for filing zero spouse's income, etc.  Spouse name and social security number were used.  Neither spouse was contacted by IRS/State.  

[MaryK4 · Accepted solution]

Depending on which state you are residents of, there are rules that can apply to your situation.  

Here are links to the IRS publication that may apply:

• Certain community income not treated as community income by one spouse.
• Spouses living apart all year.

[mjm77]

Thank you.