How to force TT to calculate deductions for NYS different than for the IRS

We're trying to figure out how to best file our NYS taxes for a startup. The startup had expenses but no income. The IRS considers the expenses a deduction, but NYS does not allow deductions if the startup can't show any income. We learned this the hard way last year when filing with Turbo Tax, using their option to have a professional file for us. We included all workbooks, etc. and then got audited because the filing was for a refund - which was rejected due to the lack of income.

We are trying now to figure out how to file our NYS return without requesting a refund at the state level (while still keeping the deductions/refund at the federal level), but still include the expenses in this year's filing so that they're amortized in future state filings.

Thank you!

posted