How to File State Income Tax

Every state has a slightly different process for filing state income tax. You will need to access information about your state's specific procedures to find out what you need to do.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Complete Your State Taxes

1. Check the availability of online tax preparation for your state. Most states list this information, along with companies that provide online tax preparation services, on their websites.
2. Obtain income tax forms if you have chosen to use print forms rather than file online. You may also want to obtain printed forms if there are only limited online options for filing in your state. Forms are usually available at local libraries and online.
3. Prepare your state income taxes. If you file online, you will need to complete the questionnaire used by your tax preparer. If you are using printed forms, you will need to complete the applicable worksheets to do the calculations necessary for your income tax forms.

Seek Help From Your State Tax Agency

4. Go to the list of tax agencies at TaxAdminutes org to find your state's tax agency (see Resources below). Links from this page will take you directly to the website of your state's tax agency.
5. Contact your state tax agency for help or answers to questions about the income tax process.

Tips & Warnings

• Your state income tax can be claimed as a deduction on your federal income tax.
• More than 40 states offer some form of online tax filing, though some states offer only limited online service. Some offer direct filing through the state's tax agency while others have partnerships with online tax preparers.
• Washington, Oregon, Florida, Texas, Nevada, Alaska, South Dakota and Wyoming do not allow online filing. In those states, you will be required to complete printed forms, and mail them to your state's tax agency.
• States with online tax-preparer partnerships may not offer free filing. However, if you file printed forms through the mail, there is no filing fee.
• Don't get stuck with outdated forms. State income tax forms can change on a yearly basis. Contact the state tax agency to get current information.