Means test

[Thethumper]

Means test for separated spouses

[shipo]

Can you be a bit more specific about what you're asking?

[Thethumper]

How to calculate income for means test when spouses living separate and apart file joint petition.

[Thethumper]

How to do means test calculation for separated spouses filing joint petition.

[justbroke]

That's a special case. I believe that each joint debtor, with a separate residence, just files separate means test and Schedule I/Js as well. If you intend to divorce, it may make things more complicated when that happens because the case administration should be bifurcated at that point (I don't think it's a must, but it may be necessary).

Maybe despritfreya has some more insight.

[despritfreya]

I have never really thought about this. If my clients are separated I only file 1 means test. Schedule I and J reflect separate household expenses such as rent and utilities. Other expenses are divided in half such as food, clothing, etc. Since I am in a community property state, being separated doesn't really matter in a joint case (but for some additional expenses). OP is in a community property state. OP will want to discuss this with a local attny.

Des.