NYS requires efile but turbotax doesn't allow empty SSN

[iamsme]

My spouse is a non-resident alien, so I need to leave the SSN field blank and put NRA, however turbotax does not allow this, but NYS requires that you efile.
So I'm not sure what to do.

[AnthonyC · Accepted solution]

Here is the full description of the NYS e-file "requirement" - You're required to electronically file your return if you meet all three of the following conditions:

• you use software to prepare your own personal income tax return;
• your software supports the electronic filing of your return; and
• you have broadband Internet access

Notice #2 above - since your software does not support the electronic filing of your return, then you are not subject to the NYS e-file requirement.  So, in cases like yours, where the software does not support electronic filing, you can print and mail your return.

[iamsme]

Turbo tax does actually give the option to efile my NYS return, its only the federal that is greyed out. But it doesn't let me insert NRA for my spouse.

[AnthonyC]

When you go through and actually try to efile, you will likely receive an error.  TurboTax doesn't allow state returns to be e-filed when you don't e-file your Federal return.  Its a preventative measure that the States themselves have asked for.  But, this scenario would also fall under #2 above.  Since you have to paper file your Federal return, TurboTax won't actually support the electronic filing of your NY return.

[iamsme]

Thanks, I saw when switching to file by mail, then back to eFile, an error showed, it should show the first time around, leads to less confusion, maybe a bug.