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Level 2
March 24, 2020
Question

married filing jointly state returns

  • March 24, 2020
  • 7 replies
  • 24 views

My husband lives in a different state. When I calculate my state return, it is recognizing his income in my state and telling me I did not pay enough in taxes. How do I adjust this? Do we have to file separately?

    7 replies

    Level 11
    March 24, 2020

    It depends on the particular state if you can adjust it, and if you can (or have to) file separately.

     

    Some states require couples to file separate state taxes, even after filing joint tax returns, if one spouse lived in a different state.

     

    States such as New Jersey give the couple the option to file jointly as if both were residents of the state the previous year.

     

    Community Property states often require all "community income" to be split between both spouses.

     

     

    Here is more details about community property states:  Community Property States

     

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    VolvoGirl
    Level 15
    March 24, 2020

    If you need to file a Joint federal and separate state returns

    https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-prepare-a-joint-federal-return-and-separate-state-returns/00/25564

     

    Reading the FAQ it looks like you have to use 3 accounts.  One to file the Joint return.  Then you each need another account to fill out fake federal MFS returns to do your separate state returns.    So you will have to PAY for 3 online accounts (3 federal returns and 2 state returns).  That's why it's cheaper to use the Desktop installed program.    If you don't have a computer to install the desktop program on maybe it would be cheaper and easier to go to a local accountant or tax place.

     

    Online is only good for 1 return per account.  But you can use the same email address for 5 accounts.   How to start another return in the Online version

    https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-start-another-return-in-turbotax-online/00/25596

     

    Or buy the Desktop CD/Download program here

    https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/cd-download/