In my 2017 return status why does my state return for New Jersey read started?

The IRS does not start processing tax returns until January 29, 2018.  State tax returns cannot be processed until the Federal has been accepted.  

To file your state return after you have e-filed your federal tax return (and your return has been accepted) you can follow the instructions below:

• Log in to your TurboTax Online account
• Click on Taxes at the top of the page, then click on My Tax Timeline
• Locate your 2017 tax return information
• Under Some Things You Can Do (below your 2017 return statuses), click on Add a State
• You will be brought to a screen that says, Welcome Back (insert your name)
• Look at the top of the page, and click on State Taxes to start your state return
• After reviewing your completed State return, look to the top of the screen, and click File
• Choose to continue to review your order and pay your fees to file, then click to file your state return