newly married

[vthompson]

I married in 2024. We do not live together. We live in separate households 1 hour away from one another. Are our filing options MFJ and MFS only? 

[DianeW777]

Yes, you have only those options for filing status.  Married filing separately is somewhat of a penalty status but you can try it both ways. Depending on the TurboTax version you are using the instructions are below for the federal return.

• TurboTax Online/Mobile: Create three separate accounts, one for each spouse separately and the one jointly.
• TurboTax Desktop: Create your jointly filed return, then switch to 'Forms' and add the 'What-if-worksheet' (search by typing what)
  • Check the box at the top and review the differences to decide how to file.
• Depending on the state tax, it can be advantageous to file separately. Each state has different rules so be sure to check your state department of revenue for details.