Do I have to file my Vermont return using the same status as my federal return?
Generally, if you file a joint federal return for 2025, you must file a joint Vermont return. Married (or civil union) couples who file joint federal returns may file separate Vermont returns if one spouse is a full year resident of Vermont and the other spouse is a nonresident of Vermont who has no Vermont income.
If you do decide to file your Vermont return with a different filing status, you'll need to set up another account to file your Vermont return using FreeTaxUSA. The individual residing in Vermont should prepare a federal return for Vermont tax purposes only using the filing status Married Filing Separately. Exemptions and deductions should be reasonably allocated between the spouses. This recomputed federal return should be attached to the Vermont return and clearly marked "Recomputed for VT Purposes". A copy of the joint return actually filed with the IRS should also be attached. The re-computed federal return should then be used to complete the Vermont Married Filing Separate tax return.
To file your Vermont return with a different filing status, you will need to mail your Vermont return.
For additional information please see Technical Bulletin 55 .
If you do decide to file your Vermont return with a different filing status, you'll need to set up another account to file your Vermont return using FreeTaxUSA. The individual residing in Vermont should prepare a federal return for Vermont tax purposes only using the filing status Married Filing Separately. Exemptions and deductions should be reasonably allocated between the spouses. This recomputed federal return should be attached to the Vermont return and clearly marked "Recomputed for VT Purposes". A copy of the joint return actually filed with the IRS should also be attached. The re-computed federal return should then be used to complete the Vermont Married Filing Separate tax return.
To file your Vermont return with a different filing status, you will need to mail your Vermont return.
For additional information please see Technical Bulletin 55 .
