Just a bit of clarification here.
Can i claim rent (for an apt in NJ) as a deduction in JH state return.
Rent that you pay for your primary residence or any other non-business "personal use" real estate is never deductible on any tax return. However, many states that tax personal income do have provisions for and allow a "renter's credit" for a percentage of the rent you pay. If you are required to file a state tax return, then you will address this when you get to the state tax return. So that won't occur until you have completed the federal tax return and move on to the state return.
