My wife and I are filing joint taxes for the fed and then I need to file state taxes in GA (MFJ). She is in FL and has no state taxes. So
1. Do I E-file the JOINT fed taxes first online without state?
2. Then do I print out my separate (MFS) return and only send the state section? I assume I do not need to submit a copy / print out of the Fed section from the joint return. Is that correct?
Yes e-file your Federal Joint Return.
Then if you are using TurboTax Download/CD Version there is a way to prepare your MFS State Return but you will have to mail that state return.
The primary taxpayer is the first taxpayer listed on the return. In the TurboTax CD/Download version:
Important: Do not file the mock MFS federal return you created here. It was only used to separate the primary taxpayer's income and deductions for state tax purposes. However, do not delete the return, because you may need it in order to view or amend the primary taxpayer's associated state MFS return.
From the Ga State tax website:
Submit proper documentation (schedules, statements and supporting documentation, including W-2s, other states’ tax returns, or necessary federal returns and schedules).
It does not indicate specifically indicate which of the Federal forms and schedules are required but it appears to be Federal Child Care Credit, Itemized Deductions - Schedule A (if you had one), if you claim credit for taxes paid to another state, a copy of that other states return and you also must include copies of all 1099's where you have Georgia tax withheld. If none of your 1099's have Georgia taxes withheld, you don't need to include them.