topic how do i file only my federal return and not a state return? in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

how do i file only my federal return and not a state return?

fmhedt — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 03:10:05 GMT

How do i file only federal return and not WA state?

Re: how do i file only my federal return and not a state return?

JohnB5677 — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 15:39:11 GMT

Yes, you can file a Federal tax return without filing with the State.

However, since Washington doesn't have a state income tax, there is no need to file a state return.

You can follow these steps to file a Federal return without filing with the State.

Go to File on the left sidebar menu
Continue through the Federal filing process.
When asked about state filing,
1. Select "I'll file state later".

Re: how do i file only my federal return and not a state return?

fmhedt — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:26:23 GMT

Thank you for taking the time to reply to my question. However my situation is a bit more complicated and its all my fault. It is a software issue rather than a tax issue. Apparently in the process of filling out my return I missed the part where TurboTax completed my state tax info and I didn't notice it until I got all the way to the end to where it started asking about how I wanted my refund. I already paid. Apparently I can't go back in and not file my state taxes after I've paid. I have been using TurboTax for many years and have never encountered this issue. Washington state does not have a state income tax so I obviously don't file a state tax return. TurboTax insists that I am entitled to a state tax refund and I am not. I don't want to file a state tax return. How do I get myself out of this software corner that I painted myself into? Thank you for your help or referring me to someone at TurboTax who can help.

Re: how do i file only my federal return and not a state return?

MonikaK1 — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 23:56:55 GMT

The only reason you might want to file a Washington state tax return is if you could qualify for the Working Families Tax Credit. See the hyperlink in the previous sentence for more information.

TurboTax does not require you to file a Washington state tax return. Here are two ways to skip your state in TurboTax Online:

1. Delete your state return, file your federal return now, and come back later to your state return.

You'll pay for your state when you file it.

2. When you get to the We've determined the easiest way to file your taxes screen, select Change next to your state return. On the Change filing method screen, select I'm not ready to file and Save.

You'll pay for your state when you file your federal return.

See this help article for more information.

@fmhedt