The pros and cons of using the married filing separately status.
Most couples file their return jointly, combining incomes and sharing deductions.
Recent talk about the marriage penalty tax, however, has prompted many couples to re-examine how they file. For some, there are instances when filing separately might be warranted. Separate returns could produce tax savings if one spouse has lots of medical expenses and a low income. By filing separately, the partner with the doctor bills might be more likely to meet the 7.5 percent threshold needed to itemize medical costs. If one spouse uses questionable tax-filing techniques, the other partner might be wise to insist on separate returns.