Confused on Federal and State Filing for Registered Domestic Partnership

[heavensclone1]

Per the Oregon gov site:
"Registered domestic partners (RDP) in Oregon receive the same tax treatment as married individuals. Just like a married couple, you and your partner may file jointly or separately. As an RDP, you can't file using the single filing status on your Oregon return."

Now, when I was filling out TurboTax online, it told me I had to purchase the Desktop version (Deluxe) since I am in an RDP.  In the Desktop version under "PERSONAL INFO", I have it listed with the following:

Marital Status: Registered Domestic Partnership
Your Filing Status: Single

Is this used for just the Federal return, or will this information be included for the State Return, as well? I don't see anywhere else that lets me change my filing or marital status during the State section.   The plan is for us to filing our taxes separately. 

Any help is appreciated!

[KeshaH]

The IRS doesn't recognize registered domestic partnerships as married couples for tax purposes. Partners in an RDP can't file married for federal tax purposes. You must file Single on your federal tax return (unless you are the head of the household). You can file together or separately on your state tax return. You will be able to make the choice on how you file your state return within the TurboTax Desktop program.

When you're in an RDP in Oregon, you each will need to file a federal return as single and then you'd also need to prepare a third return as if you were filing married.

[heavensclone1]

Thanks for the info. Let me recap to make sure I have this correct. The process for us should be:

1. I fill out and e-file my federal return as Single
2. My partner fills out and e-files their federal return as Single.

For the 3rd federal return we need to prepare (this "as-if" one), is there a specific field for "as-if" we can select in TurboTax Deluxe or do we just select "Married"?

Also, once this 3rd federal return is prepared, do we e-file it as well? Or do we need to just print it out and attach it to our State returns? I've heard that because of being in an RDP, we have to mail in our State returns and attach this third federal "as-if" return to it. Is this correct?  

[KrisD15]

No, there is not a "what-If" filing status, please use Married Filing Jointly as if that was recognized on a federal return for RDP.

No, you do NOT file the "Mock" Federal return to the IRS. This "What-If, Mock, Married Filing Jointly" federal return is ONLY for the state requirement.

Yes, print the "What-If, Mock, Married Filing Jointly" federal return Form 1040 and include it with the state return. 

Yes, most states require both returns are mailed.  Check the instructions the TurboTax software gives you with the completed state return.

HERE is a link for tips concerning California, Nevada, and Washington 

HERE is a TurboTax Tax Tip