Question

Ok, so I’m separated and have custody. Should I just go file my taxes or wait for him to pull his head out on April 14 and file together?  

Answer 1

Pull his head out? If you have custody and y'all are separated. File that shit. You deserve all you get back if you're the one providing.  

Answer 2

I believe there’s a way to file “legally separated”

Answer 3

Married filing separately is an option, you just dont necessarily get the same tax breaks or deductions. HOWEVER, I would recommend you file separate. If later on you guys come to an agreement and choose to file together, you can combine them. But if you file jointly, you are not allowed to separate your tax returns at a later date.  

Answer 4

If you've been physically separated more than 6 months, you may also be able to file Head of Household, but I'm not sure what the other qualifications/legalities are, or which one is better for your situation. I would consult a professional if I were you!  

Answer 5

When I was separated I filed separate and I claimed the kids as they lived with me 80-90 percent of the year and I made sure once custody and child support was finale that was in my docs. He agreed to let me claim kids yearly as they saw him 3. 5 days a month.