Why sign in to the Community?

  • Submit a question
  • Check your notifications
Sign in to the Community or Sign in to TurboTax and start working on your taxes
Level 2
posted Mar 4, 2021 8:01:21 AM

Can I file multiple state returns with TurboTax Basic?

I am helping a young adult with doing their taxes for the first time.

 

Scenario:  Person lived and worked in CA in 2019.  Moved to AZ in late Dec 2019.  In 2020, lived and worked in AZ.  They received a W2 for 2020 from a CA employer, because their work done in CA in Dec 2019 was paid in Jan 2020.

 

My understanding is that they need to file for 2020:

* CA non-resident return

* AZ resident return

 

I suggested that they use TurboTaxBasic online for free, as their return is likely to be simple with W2s, standard deduction, and some charity.  However, I can't figure out of TT Basic can do multiple state returns. Can it?

 

Fallback plan:  I have the CD version of TT Premier, so I could use that program.  I have CA downloaded already, I would just have to buy the AZ state return.

0 1 602
1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Mar 4, 2021 11:27:03 AM

Yes. You can prepare multiple states in TurboTax Basic. However, if your already have TurboTax Premier it would be cheaper and easier to use Premier and add Arizona.

 

To start a new return, click File in the upper left, then New Tax Return or type Ctrl+N.

 

You can paper-file as many federal returns as you want using the CD/Download software, but only five (5) of those can be e-filed per IRS regulations.

 

If you have more than one state attached to your federal return, up to three (3) of them can be e-filed. Keep in mind that many nonresident state returns can't be e-filed anyway, so if you're doing more than one state, focus on e-filing the resident and part-year resident return(s).

 

Related Resources:
• 
How many returns can I e-file in the TurboTax CD/Download software?