Which state will I pay state taxes for when I am just moving?

Question

I am about to start a new job in CA. However, technically my residence will be in another state because I have to wait until it sells. I will be staying temporarily with friends/family in CA. When I file taxes next year do I file with CA or from my home state? To make matters a bit more complicated, I normally file joint w/ my wife who will still be working in my home state. Is this a choice that is up to me? Or a decision that I can make with my new company? Thanks.

Answer 1

State income tax liability is not based on the place of your personal residence but rather on your "tax home" for a given amount of income.  In the circumstances you describe you are required to file a part year return in both states.  You new employer will take CA withholding for the period of time that you are working in CA. You will still file joint federal and state returns with your wife just the state returns will be for both states.

Answer 2

I've lived between states before.  Usually you have to pay where you work, unless you are only there on a temp basis.  This is ture even if you are living with relatives.  You can file fed with your wife, but may need to file separate state returns.