What you need to know about filing taxes in Indiana, including when to expect your refund

It's spring — and it's officially tax season.

Tax season can often bring confusion and questions about when people can expect to receive their tax refunds.

There are a few important steps to take to ensure that your tax refund arrives swiftly.

Here's what to know about the 2023 tax season — and when you can expect that Indiana tax refund to hit your bank account.

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How do I file my taxes in Indiana?

If you meet the income qualifications, you can file your Indiana state tax return for free using the INFreefile tool.

If your taxable income was less than $46,000 per year in 2022 or if you receive active duty military pay with a salary of less than $73,000 per year, you can file your state tax return for free with FreeTaxUSA.

Check to see which forms you need to file. This will differ based on whether you are filing as an individual or jointly and which exemptions you are claiming. You can file your taxes electronically at https://intime.dor.in.gov/eServices/_/.

Some may opt to file taxes through a tax preparation company, such as H&R Block or TurboTax, or a certified public accountant.

IRS.gov says taxpayers who aren’t able to file by the April 18, 2023, deadline can request an extension before that deadline, but they should know that an extension to file is not an extension to pay taxes.

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When do I need to file my tax return?

The deadline to file both federal and state tax returns is April 18, but experts recommend filing as soon as possible to get your refund the fastest and in order to have time to correct any mistakes.

However, you should wait until you have received all documentation from all jobs to file, according to the Indiana Department of Revenue.

Missing information or errors can cause delays in receiving a tax refund.

When can I expect to receive my federal and state tax refunds?

The Indiana Department of Revenue says most electronically filed returns are processed in less than 14 days.

Those who elect to receive their return by direct deposit will likely get their refund five to seven days after the return is processed.

Some common reasons that a tax refund would take longer to process include incomplete or incorrect forms, calculation or clerical errors or filing duplicate returns. Be sure to sign your tax return electronically or on paper, and double-check account and routing numbers if receiving your refund via direct deposit.

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How can I check my tax refund status in Indiana?

To check the status of your Indiana state tax refund, go online to the INTIME portal or call 317-232-2240, the automated refund line. You'll need to provide your Social Security number, as well as the exact amount of the refund.

The Indiana Department of Revenue recommends waiting at least two weeks before checking the status of your tax refund.

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How will I receive my tax refund?

Most people use direct deposit to receive their tax refunds, but you can also opt to receive a check. The Department of Revenue warns that direct deposit will come through much faster

To set up direct deposit, you will need to provide your bank routing number and account number.

Tips for tax season

Tax season can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to make it as painless as possible, courtesy of the Indiana Department of Revenue:

• Filing online will ensure that you receive your tax refund faster.

• Don't file more than once, as this will delay your refund.

• Make sure that you are sending your state tax return to the Indiana DOR, and your federal tax return to the IRS.

• Do not file your tax return until you have all W2s, 1099s and documentation ready.

• If filing a paper return, use blue or black ink and write clearly.

Contact IndyStar trending reporter Claire Rafford at crafford@gannett.com or on Twitter @clairerafford

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana tax refund 2023: Here's when you can expect to receive yours