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New Member
posted Jun 4, 2019 2:39:27 PM

What's the easiest way to compare joint vs seperate filing?

What is the easiest way to compare joint vs seperate returns?  I have the joint return  done.

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1 Best answer
Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 2:39:29 PM

You are posting from Desktop TT.  There is a "what if" feature in Forms that will allow you to compare the two filing statuses.  Go to Forms, click open forms in the middle of the screen on top, and then type in what-if worksheet

You can choose to compare MFS to MFJ and see the difference.

6 Replies
Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 2:39:29 PM

You are posting from Desktop TT.  There is a "what if" feature in Forms that will allow you to compare the two filing statuses.  Go to Forms, click open forms in the middle of the screen on top, and then type in what-if worksheet

You can choose to compare MFS to MFJ and see the difference.

New Member
Jun 4, 2019 2:39:30 PM

This feature appears to have been removed.

Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 2:39:33 PM
Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 2:39:34 PM
Level 2
Apr 9, 2020 1:24:00 PM

The answer tells me where to find, finally, the what-if feature but it only shows me federal. Is there a way to to the same thing for the state return without re-entering everything?

Expert Alumni
Apr 10, 2020 9:48:57 AM

The only way to know for sure is to create test returns federal and state, one for each spouse, and compare the bottom lines. Be sure to prepare the state return so you can get a complete tax picture."

This link  How can we compare married filing jointly with married filing separately? has additional information you may find helpful.