Employee Tax Expert
03-27-2026
05:02 PM
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Follow these steps since NJ allows separate filing:
- File the federal return
- Use the Split MFJ Return Tool:
- Go to the File menu and select Split MFJ Return.
- ProSeries will create two new, separate client files (one for the Taxpayer, one for the Spouse).
- Note: If you are in ProSeries Basic, you'll have to do a Save As and manually delete the other spouse's data.
- Go to the File menu and select Split MFJ Return.
- Prepare the "State-Only" File:
- Open the new MFS file for the NJ resident spouse.
- On the Federal Information Worksheet, ensure the filing status is Married Filing Separately.
- Crucial Step: In the Electronic Filing section (Part VI), uncheck the box for Federal e-file and check the box for New Jersey e-file. This allows you to transmit the NJ return as a "State-Only" (unlinked) return.
- Attach the Explanation:
- Since you are filing MFS after an MFJ federal return, NJ often looks for the "Special Circumstance."
- In the NJ resident return, look for the NJ-1040 "Notes" or "E-file Attachments" section. You can often attach a PDF labeled "GIT-4 Disclosure" or "Filing Status Explanation" to the electronic transmission to prevent a kickback or manual review letter later.