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New Member
posted Jul 25, 2024 5:05:25 PM

I have to file a 2021 state return only do I have to buy the whole software package that includeds federal

I filed a federal return and state return for Arkansas the state I worked in need to file for Louisiana my residential state

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2 Replies
Level 15
Jul 25, 2024 5:35:53 PM

You can’t buy a state only program. 

Level 15
Jul 25, 2024 6:03:28 PM

Yes, you have to buy the federal software. The state software does not run by itself. It's an add-on to the federal program.


Furthermore, the state tax return is based on the federal return. If you did not file your federal tax return with TurboTax you will have to recreate it before you can start the state tax return.


In addition, you will need both state programs because there is an interaction between the two states. You will get a credit on your Louisiana return for part or all of the tax you paid to Arkansas. So you also need the Arkansas return in order for the Louisiana software to calculate the credit.


If you have a .tax2021 file for your federal and Arkansas returns, you will not be able to open the file until you have first installed the Arkansas software.