If you have already e-filed or filed your federal return, you can still prepare your state return on eFile.com. You enter all your tax data but on checkout you don’t click to efile a Federal Tax Return.

When to file extension of state tax return?

In most cases, your state tax return is due by October 15 if you take advantage of a six-month extension. However, if you fail to file a complete return by this date, your state may charge you penalties just for filing your return late.

How does e-file federal and state tax returns together?

When you use Federal/State E-file the electronic filing software puts your federal and state return data in separate packets. These separate packets are then submitted to the IRS at the same time. The IRS acts as a virtual post office for the participating state which retrieves and processes the state return.

Do you have to have an efile account to file a state return?

If you do not have an eFile.com account, create a free account. If you do have an eFile.com account, sign in and begin preparing your state return. You will start by entering general information. You will need to prepare a federal return, but you will NOT have to efile it, and you will NOT have to pay for it.

Do you need to file a federal return before filing a state return?

TaxACT allows you to prepare your state return, but first you need to prepare your federal return. All the data that flows to the state return originates from the federal return.

Where does the information for a state return come from?

All the data that flows to the state return originates from the federal return. The State Q&A interview section then prompts you for additional information that is specific to your state. Depending on your state, your filing options may be limited if you have already filed your federal return (or choose to file your state return first).

Is the information on a state tax return the same as a federal return?

Since much of the tax information (income, personal information, deductions, etc.) on a state income tax return is similar to a federal income tax return, eFile.com will guide you through the screens that are the same for federal and state.