How to File a Married Filing Separately Tax Return Online for Free

Millions of taxpayers qualify for the IRS's eFile program, which allows taxpayers to file their tax returns online for free using either the Free File program or other such tax-preparation software. There are several tax software programs available for purchase, which include Intuit's TurboTax, TaxACT and H&R Block's TaxCut. But even if you purchase such a software, you can still file your return online free of charge. If you are married filing separately, you can utilize this process as long as you qualify by meeting the adjusted gross income limits.

Things You'll Need

• Forms W-2
• Social Security Numbers
• Forms 1099 (for dividends, retirement, or other income)
• Receipts for itemized deductions
• Bank account numbers
• Tax preparation software (ex: TurboTax, TaxAct, TaxCut)

Instructions

Tax Preparation Software

1. Install your purchased tax preparation software onto your computer. Follow the installation instructions and shut down and restart your computer when the software is finished installing.

2. Launch the tax software.

3. Enter your personal information: name, address, Social Security number.

4. Check the box for married filing separately tax status. The tax software will ask you your marital status and give you options to mark such as divorced or separated. As you proceed, it will also ask what year the divorce was finalized or the separation took place.

5. Enter the wages and income section and deductions and credits section as you progress through the software.

6. To file your tax return, select eFile. This will e-mail your return to the IRS page. There will be no charge for this.

Tax Preparation Company (Free File)

1. Go to the IRS's Free File Home website (see Resources).

2. Click the "I will choose a company" button. This directs you to a page where there are links to several online tax-preparation web sites.

3. Select a company from the list that you would like to work with. Note that there are adjusted gross income limits for preparing your taxes online. Make sure you qualify to use this service before starting.

4. Click the link to the company of your choosing. You will be redirected to the company's website.

5. Enter your tax information when prompted, and let the website do your taxes for you.

6. File your return. The site will prompt you to send your return via e-mail to the IRS without charge.

Filling Out Forms (Free File)

1. Go to the Free File Home page on the IRS website.

2. Click the "Choose Fillable Forms" button at the bottom of the page. The link will direct you to another page where you fill out the forms.

3. Create a new account once you arrive at www.freefilefillableforms.com.

4. Enter information as you work your way through standard IRS forms.

5. Send the files via e-mail to the IRS when finished preparing your taxes. There will be no charge.

References

• IRS.gov: Individual e-File Electronic Tax Filing Program Overview
• IRS.gov: Free File Home
• IRS.gov: The Five Filing Status Possibilities