What is the difference between filing as "divorced" or "single"

[pegasus5]

I have been divorced for over 18 years but always filed head of household.  Now my kid is 21 and fully supports herself.  Do I file as "single" or "divorced"?  Seems like it does not make a difference.

[jerry2000]

There is no "divorced" filing status. The reason that Turbotax asks you that is to guide you through certain questions. Your filing status is Single, so just use that and all will be well.

[garybeck1]

do not select "divorced!"  last year I did that and it screwed up everything by UNselecting the Head of Household which changed how much I owed by A LOT.   I had to file an amended return just because of that.

[jameslauer44]

thanks for the head's up.

I have been divorced for several years and noticed again this year (and previous years) it is in fact one of the first questions asked by TurboTax.. and as with many forms I fill out I start to question if it matters and more importantly why?  not like it actually pays to be marital status fluid... or does it?   

James aka Lauer303