The state of Massachusetts has announced that it will begin Phase Two of individual e-file testing with software developers on or after 1.09.14.  The latest version of their Personal Income Tax (PIT) schema will be release to developers on 1.08.14.  Massachusetts is a direct-file state, and is implementing XML for the first time this year.  The transition to the new technology will impact the start date for Massachusetts individual e-file.  Drake Software and the state are working diligently to complete testing as quickly as possible so that Massachusetts taxpayers can start filing their state returns at the same time they can start filing federal returns - January 31.