Married filing separately for the first time

[myates928]

Do I actually file two separate returns one for me and one for my husband?

[Marketstar]

Yes, you will need file two separate returns to file Married Filing Separate.

However, Married Filing Joint generally yields a better tax result than Married Filing Separate even if one spouse earns little or no taxable income

Generally, filing jointly will give you a bigger refund or less taxes due. When you file separately, your tax rate is higher and you won't be able to claim a number of deductions and credits:

See Is it better for a married couple to file jointly or separately?