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Returning Member
posted Apr 12, 2021 12:42:49 PM

how to file state tax separately in california and massachusetts?

My husband and I got married in 2019. My husband lives in CA and only has income in CA. I live in MA and only earn income in MA. We are filing our federal tax jointly but plan to file state taxes separately. 

CA is a community property state and MA is not. 

I wonder how we file state tax exactly. 

 

Do I need to file a non-resident return in CA?  Do I need to pay CA tax with my MA income? Does my husband need to pay MA tax with his CA income? Can anyone advise? 

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1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Apr 13, 2021 6:42:54 AM

If you both live and work in different state I recommend that you file your Federal return Jointly, and file each of your state returns separately.

 

Publication 555 (03/2020), Community Property | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)   Community property laws generally. 

 

Community property laws affect how you figure your income on your federal income tax return if you are married, live in a community property state or country, and file separate returns.

 

Since you DO NOT live in a community property state you are not subject to the California law.