Is there a workaround that will permit me to e-file a MA MFJ return after filing two Federal MFS returns?

[williasp]

I understand MA will not allow a couple to file two MA MFS returns after they have filed a Federal MFJ return.  But my situation is just the opposite.  I need to file two Federal MFS returns for student loan purposes.  It's painful, but necessary.  However, I would much prefer to file a MA MFJ return since doing so will provide a lower tax liability because a MA MFJ return provides an $880 child credit.  The problem is, after creating a full-blown MFJ return, I click "Don't e-file the Fed return."  I then click "e-file the state return."  But TT says "no can do."  You have to file the Fed return before filing the state return.  I assume this is a TT issue and not a MA issue.  Is there a workaround?  I would rather not have to print and mail the state return, only because I'm afraid the idiots that open and scan the mail will screw it up.  (Note:  It's a moderately complex return with multiple W2's, 1099's, health coverage, children etc., so I'd rather not have to re-create the tax file on another platform starting from scratch.)

[MaryK4 · Accepted solution]

Unfortunately, there is no workaround for this- you cannot efile a state return if you do not file the federal return.  Massachusetts participates in the IRS Federal/State MeF program, allowing linked filing where the federal return is sent to the IRS and forwarded to the state.  It is not just a TurboTax issue, most states require the federal tax information to be submitted with the state efile.  See Massachusetts Modernized e-File (MeF) Program.

You will have to paper file the Massachusetts joint return. 

[williasp]

Thanks MaryK4.  I was afraid that was the case.  On the other hand, if I paper file the MA MFJ return, it's hard to understand how that makes MA processing easier or more efficient.  Are they going to reach out to the Feds and obtain the Fed filed MFS returns?  That's absurd.  But then again, not much in gov't makes sense to us mere mortals.  Thanks again.

[williasp]

MaryK4:  Just reread your comment.  You said: "you cannot efile a state return if you do not file the federal return. "  But I am filing the fed return - in fact, two Fed MFS returns.  So I can e-file the two Fed MFS returns.  Wait a week, then file the MA MFJ return.

I understand the problem if you file Fed MFJ and MA MFS.  That's not permitted.  But my situation is the opposite and I don't believe there is any prohibition against filing a MA MFJ return after filing two Fed MFS returns.

[MaryK4]

You cannot efile the Massachusetts return with TurboTax if you filed separately for the federal.  It is just an unfortunate TurboTax limitation.  @williasp