Hello Moms,
Need some advise on how to file taxes after being legally separated. Believe it or not, due to finances the children's father and I still live together but more distant roommates than anything else. My question is, we're suppose to file "married filing separated" as we're not legally divorced but there are less benefits and deductions allowed. Is it possible to still file "married filing joint" or not?
Or are there any loopholes around getting the full deductions? He is self employed and I work full time and was looking forward to finally getting a tax return but did not know there were less deductions allowed.
Tks!!
You definitely want to get professional advice for this one. I am finally filing single, head of household this year after 3 years of filing married and am finally getting a nice refund this year. If you can file HOH and claim your children (or split them between you, anyway), you will be in a much better situation. Good luck.
better ask professional, but I'm thinking either way is ok.
I'm not a tax professional, but I beleive the IRS treats legally separated as a divorce, therefore, you are not married and cannot file as such. Your best option is probably head of household. Call the IRS.
Hi R., You have a few options, but the best option is to seek professional advice from a tax preparer. When looking for a pro, seek one with an E.A. title. (This is an "Enrolled Agent" who is licensed to appear before the IRS for their clients, much like an attorney represents a client in court.)
A tax preparer who is really looking out for you will prepare your taxes using all of the available options, married filing separately, married, etc. and you can choose the one that works best for you.
Good luck!
