Unclear on Spouse's RI state tax after moving out permanently (after more than 183 days) and filing Federal taxes as Married filing jointly

[glacier]

We got married in 2021. I have been in a state where there is no state tax for the whole year and spouse moved to this state after living in RI for more than 183 days in 2021.We are unclear on how to file the state taxes using TT Premier desktop for the spouse.

Based on https://tax.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur541/files/forms/2019/Income/2019-Resident-Instructions_120520... , I am not sure if spouse is considered resident or part year resident due to the moving out permanently. Also, do we have to file MFJ for state tax as well or do we need to file separately for spouse only (i.e. any impact on tax liability/returns on combined income or just the RI income)?

TT Premier Mac shows that we need to file jointly as non-resident where my name is primary on it. While I was never a resident, isn't the spouse resident or part year resident?

Please advise!

Thanks

[DMarkM1]

You will file a joint federal return and your spouse will file a part-year resident separate return for RI. 

On desktop you can complete up to five returns so after completing your joint federal return, you can complete a married filing separate return with only your spouse's income and information.  This will allow you to create a separate RI return. 

You will not file the federal separate return it is only a "dummy" to allow the RI return creation.

In the "My Info" section for your spouse's separate return you will indicate her current resident state and that she lived in another state (RI) and enter the date of the move to the new state.

On the joint federal return that you will file simply indicate that you both resided in your current state all year.

[glacier]

@DMarkM1 

Thanks for the guidance.

With the suggested approach, can I still e-file spouse's RI state taxes or do I have to choose "File by mail"? I ask because I am being very cautious since I am already on the "File" tab => "E-file your federal return for FREE"  screen.

I see top progress bar with following steps: Selection -> Federal -> State -> Payment -> Review -> Filed.

I am not sure at which step/screen exactly I can choose to NOT e-file federal, but can still e-file state taxes.

Thanks

[DMarkM1]

Yes, select the "File by Mail" option for the separate return.  You cannot e-file the state return without e-filing the corresponding federal return.  You will need to print/mail it in.  TurboTax will print all the necessary filing forms and mailing instructions.