I filed jointly last year and have to file separately this year; can I import last year's data into both returns?

[kathnh]

I filed jointly last year with my spouse's name first on the return.  This year we have to file separately.  Most of the information on last year's return is mine, but when I import it, TurboTax assumes I"m him.  Is there a way to import last year's data for my return?

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

No. If you are filing a separate return then transferring last year's joint return will put all of your spouse's 2017 information onto the new 2018 return.  You should start over from "scratch" if you are not filing joint this year.  You do not say why you "have" to file separate returns--filing separate returns is usually the worst way to file.  Why do you think you need to file separately?

[kathnh]

Husband is retired and lives in an income tax state; My work life is complicated; in the past four years, we've only lived in the same state one of them.  Four years ago and again this year I am living and working in NH, which has no income tax.  Husband has no tax liability (his retirement income is less than the standard deduction), but when I filed jointly and timely and properly claimed out of state status in his state, they wanted full payment of state taxes.  It took three years and $1000 in legal fees to fight it.  I really don't want to go through that again.

[SweetieJean]

NH taxes interest and dividends above a certain amount.