Illinois days away from start of tax season
ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Tax season is just days away from beginning in Illinois.
The Illinois Department of Revenue announced it will start accepting and processing tax returns on Jan. 29, the same date the IRS will accept federal tax returns. The agency expects to process 6.2 million tax returns for individuals this year.
State leaders are asking taxpayers who file electronically to do so as early as possible for quicker processing. They are also promoting their online, easy-to-use program to file taxes.
“MyTax Illinois, our free online program, allows taxpayers to file returns with or without an account, operates with a simple question and answer format, and works to reduce errors by using automated calculations and prepopulated information,” said IDOR Director David Harris. “Individuals may also choose to file using tax-prep software, a tax professional, or the paper Form IL-1040.”
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Harris also said some taxpayers can reduce the amount they owe through tax credits.
“Depending on circumstances, taxpayers may be able to reduce the amount of taxes owed through tax credits,” Harris explained. “Some popular tax credits include the Illinois K-12 Education Expense Credit, and the Property Tax Credit, and the Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).”
More information on the Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit for low- to moderate-income Illinoisans, and the Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit for volunteer firefighters, can be found on the Department of Revenue’s website.
Officials also encouraged taxpayers to choose direct deposit to get their tax refund money as quick as possible. Direct deposit refunds should come back in around four weeks if the taxpayer files a return without error. Taxpayers can check the processing status of their refunds on the Where’s My Refund website.
Last year, the IDOR prevented more than $104 million of erroneous or fraudulent refunds by verifying information. They ask taxpayers to help prevent fraud by keeping their personal information private and being alert to scams and phishing emails.
Illinois taxpayers can find more information, instructions and forms on the IDOR’s website. Residents can also receive assistance by calling 1-800-732-8866 or 217-782-3336. Language assistance is also available for callers.
The tax filing deadline this year is Monday, April 15.
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