"I attempted to file Oregon first, but it got to a screen which directed me to finish my CA return"
I don't have the OR state module on my computer, so I can't duplicate your situation. But that sentence implies that you had started your CA return before your OR return. You must complete the OR return before you start the CA return in order for the "other state credit" to be properly calculated and applied.
The "other state credit" applies only to the portion of your income that was taxed by both OR and CA. The credit will be granted on your non-resident CA return. The program can "know" the credit amount only if you complete the OR return first.
**Answers are correct to the best of my ability but do not constitute tax or legal advice.
