FAQs: e-Filing Your State Returns

We tell you how to prepare federal and state, state-only or multiple state returns.

State Returns:

State Specific Information:

Can I e-file my state return with eSmart? (back to top)
eSmart supports e-filing of all available state returns. You will always start by entering your federal information first, then selecting the state with which you want to e-file.

I filed my federal return elsewhere. Can I submit a state-only return using eSmart? (back to top)
Yes, as long as your state supports state-only e-filing, you are welcome to use eSmart to file one or multiple state returns even if you have already e-filed your federal return elsewhere. When you start a new return, you need to enter the federal information first and then continue on to the state return. When you reach “Step 6: File,” you will have the choice to “Not Send” the federal portion and to e-file the state portion only. Click here first to make sure that your state supports state-only e-filing.

Can I e-file multiple state returns? (back to top)

  • Yes, you can file multiple state returns easily with one federal return.
  • After you have completed the federal portion of your return, move on to “Step 5: State,” where you can choose the state form you want to file.\
  • After you have completed your first state return, you then have the option of choosing another state or continuing on to “Step 6: File.” All of the state returns you prepare will be listed under the “States” section.
  • Once you have added all of your state returns, move on to “Step 6: File.” You can then choose whether or not you want to e-file the federal and state returns at the summary page.

I e-filed my federal and state returns. My federal return was accepted, but my state return was rejected because of an error in my tax statement (W-2, 1099, etc.). I can't make changes to the tax statements to revise my state return. What should I do? (back to top)

  • An accepted federal e-file is a sealed record. You can change information in the “States” section, but not the “Tax Statements” section of your accepted federal return.
  • You will need to start a new return, enter all federal information with the correct tax statements, and file a state-only return.
  • If you have chosen eSmart Deluxe, Premium or Signature service, you will be able to “clone” the federal return, which allows you to more easily continue with a state-only return.

I selected and prepared a wrong state tax form. How do I revise or choose a different one? (back to top)
Under “Step 5: State,” you can choose and prepare multiple state returns and forms. Once you reach “Step 6: File,” you can choose which state forms you want to submit, while checking “Do Not Send” for the incorrect form(s).

Some state tax withholding information was not transferred from my tax statements (e.g., 1099-G). What should I do? (back to top)
Other than entering data in the tax statements section, you can enter the information directly on the appropriate line of the state form. Make sure the amount is not duplicated if you do so. Also, some states require that state withholding be entered in the tax statements section (W-2, W-2G, 1099-R).

How do I get an Illinois e-file PIN? (back to top)
Please visit the IL-PIN Inquiry webpage to obtain a PIN from Illinois.

How do I get my California e-file Customer Service Number (CSN)? (back to top)
You can visit the California Franchise Tax Board website to retrieve your Customer Service Number.

Where can I look for more information about my state? (back to top)
Although states usually follow the IRS system for e-file, some have their own unique requirements about forms, information, payment methods and e-file signatures. You can read more about these specific state requirements here.