I filed Wrong "Status" Return

[JimO2]

I inadvertently filed "Married Filing Separately" when I should have filed "Married Filing Jointly." I will have to amend my Federal return. But I have two state returns I need to file. Can I file the correct status return with the states while waiting to amend the federal return?

[MaryK4]

If you did not file the state returns, you can file the joint returns, but you will at least have to prepare the amend in TurboTax with the joint filing status because the state require transmission of the federal information with the state returns.

[JimO2]

Thank you. 

[JimO2]

Since I filed "Married Filing Separate" in error. Should my wife file the same before April 18th even though I'm waiting for the IRS to process my return so I can file the correct "Married Filing Jointly"?

[AmyC]

The IRS is concerned about the money. If the joint return will owe money, you need to make a payment today. Otherwise, the actual form to amend and file joint can wait until your original return is done processing.