Wisconsin’s tax season, like the federal tax season, officially began on January 27. Filing activity will be brisk, particularly the first few weeks and the last few weeks of the season.
This year’s individual income tax filing deadline is Wednesday, April 15. DOR reminds taxpayers not to file until they have all their tax documents. Having to file an amended return later will significantly delay a refund.
“Of the more than three million individual income tax returns the department received last year, just under 88 percent were filed electronically,” says Wisconsin Department of Revenue Secretary Peter Barca. “We would love to see that number at 100 percent because electronic filing is more secure, accurate and almost always results in a faster refund.”
People may use the free and accurate Wisconsin e-file online tool to file their state income taxes, or they may choose to use third-party software from an approved vendor. Like other online tools, Wisconsin e-file does the required math to prevent errors and allows direct deposit or withdrawal from a bank account.
Taxpayers will find helpful resources available on DOR’s website at www.revenue.wi.gov including:
• a list of free tax help sites across Wisconsin
• an online application that checks your refund status
• a free mobile app available through Apple and Android app stores
• DOR’s video center, with information on e-filing, free tax help and tax credits
As in previous years, DOR cannot issue refunds until March 1, if it cannot verify wage and withholding information from employers.