How do I file a tax return for a different state than the one I live in?
Posted on June 25, 2009 by admin
Rem asked:
In 2008 I work in a Louisiana (I live in Texas) for 5 weeks. I’m pretty sure that means I have to file a Louisiana tax return. I have never done this before. How do I go about filing a tax return for a state I don’t live in?
In 2008 I work in a Louisiana (I live in Texas) for 5 weeks. I’m pretty sure that means I have to file a Louisiana tax return. I have never done this before. How do I go about filing a tax return for a state I don’t live in?
The same way you file the state tax return if you live in the state. You either have an accoutant do your taxes for you or you buy tax software to do it yourself. If you buy tax software, you’ll need to order the state software online because it’s highly unlikely your local retail store will carry the associated state tax software; especially, since Texas has no state income tax!
Call 800-555-1212….ask for the louisiana dept of taxation and finance. When you call, tell them you need a non resident tax packet. They will send it to you with the instructions. Many states have an income limitation where you may not have to file a return. Ask what is the minimum for filing. You can also have a professional preparer do this but it will cost a fortune. The Louisiana Dept of Taxation will guide you through this if you have questions. Also, many states have tax forms on line so you can file on line. You might want to ask them if you can do this and ask for the web address.
You need to file a non resident form. You only need to claim the income for the time you worked in Louisiana…not for the whole year.
The easiest way to accomplish this is to use an accountant or a tax software that walks you though the steps of filing a state return (eg: turbo tax). You can file your federal return as well as your state return using turbo tax.
I would try