User's Manual - Drake Software

Data Entry
Drake Software User’s Manual
To split a joint return:
1. Open the return.
2. Choose one of the following options:
• To compare returns for two individuals who lived together for the entire year,
click the Split button or press CTRL+S.
• To compare returns for two individuals who did not live together for the entire
year, click the down arrow next to the Split button and select a category of
MFS filing status.
NOTE
At this point, if there is a Schedule A on the return and you have not
specified on screen A whether to force itemized or standard deduction,
you are prompted to select Itemize, Standard, or Optimize before proceeding.
If you select Optimize, the program will determine which is the
better treatment of the Schedule A deductions.
Results are displayed in the Return Selector (Figure 3-22). The MFJ/MFS
Report button allows you to view a Filing Status Optimization Report for a
selected return. (See “About the MFJ/MFS Report” following.)
Figure 3-22: Results for split return
3. Select files, and then click MFJ/MFS Report, Print, or Save, as applicable.
4. Click Exit.
About the
MFJ/MFS
Report
To view the MFJ/MFS report, click the MFJ/MFS Report button. (See Figure 3-22.)
The report is displayed with the MFS_COMP (and OH_COMP, for Ohio returns)
reports visible in tree mode. Select a report for viewing or printing. The report appears
in the pane to the right of the tree view. For more information on View mode, see
“Viewing a Return (Enhanced Mode)” on page 197.
NOTE
Currently, the state report feature is available for Ohio returns only.
74 Tax Year 2012