At fresh start tax we try to answer frequently asked questions. This is one of the more common questions we are asked. As former IRS  agents and managers we can help audit proof your tax return today. Call us for more information.
Question:
My spouse and I are filing separate returns. How do we split our itemized deductions?
Answer:
If you and your spouse file separate returns and one of you itemizes deductions, the other spouse will have a standard deduction of zero.
In this situation, the other spouse should also itemize his or her deductions.
You may be able to claim itemized deductions on a separate return for certain expenses that you paid separately or jointly with your spouse.
Deductible expenses paid out of separate funds are deductible only by the spouse who pays them.
For example,
if otherwise deductible medical expenses are paid from an account that is owned by one of the spouses or, in a community property state, from an account that is the separate property of one of the spouses under the laws of that state, only that spouse may claim a deduction for the expenditure.
If expenses are paid from funds owned by both spouses such as a joint checking account or an account that is considered community property under the laws of the state in which the spouses reside, the deduction should generally be split between you and your spouse.
For example, if otherwise deductible mortgage interest on a residence owned by both spouses is paid from a joint checking account, each of you would deduct half of the mortgage interest on your separate returns.
If, however, only one of the spouses is entitled to a deduction for the expense (for example, a payment of property taxes for property owned by just one of the spouses), only that spouse is allowed a deduction for the expenditure even if the expense is paid from joint funds.
Each spouse must maintain records documenting who is considered to have paid the expense.
 

My spouse and I are filing separate returns. How do we split our itemized deductions?  ANSWER IS