<prompt> Human: FortunatelyUnfortunately, we both make almost the same amount of money, so not sure if our effective tax would be effected much if filed together, perhaps when we have kids?No significant debt on either side and overall both of us are in good financial state. I might have a little more diverse portfolio than my soon to be spouse and we will probably be planning to buy a house together in the next 5 years.  <response>: Married filing separately is not generally recommended, since you typically pay more taxes on the same income and have fewer allowable deductions. The notable exception is when only one person is on a student loan repayment plan based on income. But you can figure your taxes both ways and decide which is better for you. Most tax software will let you do this very simply. 