Should I file joint or single?

2017-08-15T20:58:12-04:00

My soon to be ex wife and I are talking about filing taxes together one last time this season. we lived together more than 6 months and have 2 children together. Obviously I know it would be more beneficial to me since I would no longer qualify for EITC not being the custodial parent. Should we just do it together and split? Or would it be best for each of us to file separately?

Response by PFC Jonathan Albano made Aug 15 at 2017 9:04 PM

2017-08-15T21:04:07-04:00

This would be a good question to aim at a professional, however, I would file joint if it makes financial sense for both of you to do so.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 11:45 PM

2017-08-15T23:45:11-04:00

It would get you more back however it may cause you and her some problems. I would do it with great caution.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made Aug 16 at 2017 10:07 AM

2017-08-16T10:07:10-04:00

Talk to your attorney.

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made Aug 16 at 2017 11:13 AM

2017-08-16T11:13:59-04:00

You must be married on 31 Dec to file jointly.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 11:24 AM

2017-08-16T11:24:15-04:00

I would go to a tax professional with this.
This is from Turbo Tax:

"Your marital status at the end of the year determines how you file your tax return. If you were divorced by midnight on December 31 of the tax year, you will file separately from your former spouse. If you are the custodial parent for your children, you may qualify for the favorable head of household status."

http://blog.turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/divorce-and-taxes-4018/

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