Getting Divorced, working and living in different states (NJ and NY)

[kdk210]

Husband and Wife separated in March of 2024, but ended the year still married in the eyes of the IRS.  Husband lived whole year in NJ and Wife moved to NY in March of 2024.  Husband worked in NJ the whole year and Wife worked in NY the whole year as well.  No dependents.  Planning to file jointly for federal.  Would like to also file jointly for NJ and NY state income tax.  Is this possible?   How do we use Turbotax to properly file this situation?

Thanks!

[KeshaH]

Yes, you can file jointly for NJ and NY returns as well.

For NY, you have to file jointly if you filed your federal return jointly. You'd file as a part-year resident so that only the NY resident spouse's income is included on the return. 

For NJ, you can choose to file separately or jointly. If you file separately, only the NJ resident spouse's income is taxable to NJ. If you choose to file jointly, both spouse's incomes are taxable to NJ. However, you may qualify for a tax credit in NJ for the tax paid to NY on the NY resident spouse's income.