Standard Deduction for State Filing

[grimmie3]

Hi there,

I am filing as Married Filed Jointly, and for the Federal Tax, the Standard Deduction of 12,600 works best for me.
But I don't see this Standard Deduction for the State Tax Return.
Is the Standard Deduction not applicable for State Tax? (since it is used for Federal)

[PeterM]

The federal standard deduction does not carry over to the state. Each state varies as to the amount allowable as a standard deduction.

[RachelW33]

It depends on the specific state you are filing in, as each state sets its own amount for the standard deduction. 

Some states require you to use the same method you used on your federal return (Standard or Itemized), while others allow you to choose whichever method saves you more money on your state taxes. A few states, such as Illinois or Pennsylvania, do not offer a standard deduction at all because they tax income at a flat rate.