topic Filing two state returns with different filing status in Tax help for military filers

Filing two state returns with different filing status

jmerrithew04 — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:08:22 GMT

I am active duty military with Virginia as my HOR. My wife works in NC, where I was stationed, and had state taxes taken out for NC.

Last year I paid to have a "tax pro" file my taxes and they did MFJ for federal and the NC state return. Then they filed a MFS for the VA return.

I am attempting to do the same thing this year but on my own. I know I need to prepare a MFS federal return in order to complete the MFS VA return but am not sure what information needs to be provided on there. Do I include our 2 children? Do I include mortgage interest paid and property taxes paid? I'm just not sure if I include everything that I would for MFJ federal return, minus spouses income. Looking for guidance. Thank you.

Re: Filing two state returns with different filing status

MaryK4 — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:29:04 GMT

For the Separate return you prepare to file your Virginia return, you can include your 2 children as dependents, and any deductions (the mortgage interest and property taxes) or credits you would qualify for. You are correct that Virginia is looking for your federally taxed income only.

How do I prepare a joint federal return and separate state returns?

Re: Filing two state returns with different filing status

jmerrithew04 — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:48:03 GMT

How do I only e-file the state return? Is there a way to do that?

Re: Filing two state returns with different filing status

DoninGA — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:52:53 GMT

@jmerrithew04 wrote:

How do I only e-file the state return? Is there a way to do that?

The state tax return has to be e-filed at the same time as the federal tax return e-file. Or the state return can be e-filed after the federal tax return has been e-filed and accepted by the IRS.

If the federal return is not going to be e-filed then the state tax return can only be printed and mailed.