Why can't I e-file my Massachusetts return before I e-file federal return?

[xmasbaby0]

The state will not accept an e-filed return unless you have successfully e-filed an accepted federal return.  So--sorry---that is how it works.

[timblosser]

Can you point me toward where that is stated/explained? 

[xmasbaby0]

https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/state-taxes/e-file-state-return-federal/...

[SteamTrain]

(oops, apparently it is explained)....... the consumer tax filing system depends on the IRS to do the initial identity checks with your Federal e-filing....and TTX just won't send out a state set until after the IRS has "Accepted" your e-file.   Even e-filing bot Fed&State together, the state file just sits on the servers until the IRS "Accepts" the Federal file.

Some states do have their own Online e-filing system on their website, that lets you file on that state on it's own.  That doesn't require the IRS "Acceptance" first.....but not all states have an online system like that available, and even if they do, they will eventually (within a year or two) link with the IRS computers to make sure what you told the state is consistent with what you told the IRS.