Question on extension?

[SueBaby]

When you file an extension: joint or separated. Do you have to do their taxes the way you filed them on the extension----- they haven't made their mind up what to do yet.

Going to file married but they said by August it might be separated. Does it matter? Or as along as their taxes are done? Wanted to be sure before I mess up. Thanks

[AZ-Tax]

I thought it was based on status as of 12/31/08

I thought the 08 extension is based on the same filing status you would have filed the taxpayers 08 return regardless if you filed the 08 extension.

[Burke]

You can file the extension one way and the final tax returns another way. It does not matter. I would file separate extensions. You can always do joint return later.

[SueBaby]

I thought the 08 extension is based on the same filing status you would have filed the taxpayers 08 return regardless if you filed the 08 extension.

They don't want to do taxes now because of owing alot of money and the wife is going to separate from him this summer and wants to do her own. The husband wants together and they are arguing about what to do----only 2 DAYS LEFT!!! I AM giving an extension but which way is right for the IRS?

[Burke]

See my previous post. The IRS does not care. File separate extensions.

[JohnH]

I agree.
Separate extensions protect you & the client, regardless of how the final return is prepared.

[DaveO]

Yes file seperate extensions. If the spouse named second on the return files seperate the IRS won't see the extension. Also they can make their own seperate payments that way.