You are here:

Tax Law (Questions About Taxes)/married filing separately

Advertisement


Question
Hi, Just a quick question on  mortgage interest. If my husband and I file  separately, can we split the mortgage interest deductions? It is in both our names. If not, how is it determined as to which of us get to deduct it. We both have to itemize.
thanks so much!
-Eileen Casey

Answer
Eileen,

Thanks for your question.

Normally, it is simply divided between the two of you.  It is acceptable, however, to split it based on your relative incomes.  For example if you earn $60,000 and your husband earns $40,000, you can split the deduction 60-40.

Hope this helps.

John Stancil, CPA

Tax Law (Questions About Taxes)

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


John Stancil, CPA

Expertise

I can answer questions on personal income taxes, partnerships, and some corporate income taxes. I can deal with some state tax questions. Limited gift and estate tax questions. I am also familiar with ministerial and church tax reporting issues. I teach tax and accounting at a small church-related college. Sales taxes and property taxes are state and local issues so I am not likely be be able to give you an in depth answer on those types of taxes. I have maintained a part time tax practice for over 35 years. I am a member of the AICPA, National Association of Tax Professionals, and the Institute of Management Accountants. Visit my website at www.johnstancilcpa.com. Also visit my blog, www.thetaxdocspot.com. Prepare and file your own taxes at www.1040stancilcpa.com

Experience

I hold a doctorate in Accounting, and four professional certifications: CPA, CMA, CGMA, and CFM. I passed all certification examinations on the first attempt, and received honorable mention for my scores on the CIA exam. I have operated a CPA firm for over 30 years and have taught accounting and tax at the college level for over 30 years.

Organizations
AICPA, FICPA, IMA, NATP

Publications
The CPA Journal, Florida CPA Today, Green Consumer, Green Business, Global Sustainability as a Business Imperative, Palmetto Review, NATP TaxPro Quarterly.

Education/Credentials
DBA University of Memphis MBA University of Georgia BS in Accounting Mars Hill College

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.