Pinal Today

The Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) has issued important guidance for individual taxpayers as the filing season nears its conclusion. The department highlights the potential for delays for those filing by paper, with around 50% of taxpayers submitting returns in the last month. Approximately 80,000 paper returns are typically filed, increasing the chance for delays and errors.

ADOR advises opting for electronic filing and payment to minimize wait times for refunds. Combining e-filing with paper payment may result in the return being processed faster, whereas the paper payment could take 8-10 weeks. Those facing this scenario should allow processing time before contacting the department regarding a bill notice.

Taxpayers can track their state refund status online at AZTaxes.gov/Home/CheckRefund by providing necessary identification details. "You can check your state refund status online at AZTaxes.gov/Home/CheckRefund and see where the refund is in the process," explains ADOR.

The timeframe for refunds varies: e-filers should anticipate a process time of a few weeks, while paper filers should expect at least 10 weeks. Refunds, if delivered to the wrong account, need the receiving account to return the funds before reissuance. Refund processing may depend on bank handling, and those using tax preparation services might experience delays.

Taxpayers may opt to file for free through the IRS Direct File Pilot Program, accessible via azdor.gov or Free File Alliance. ADOR also collaborates with the IRS for the Direct File tool and Arizona's FileYourStateTaxes program, facilitating free electronic submission for qualifying returns.

Additional guidance includes ensuring accuracy and completeness of filed returns, claiming appropriate tax credits, and using correct tax year forms. Taxpayers are urged to review their returns thoroughly to avoid errors that could delay processing. ADOR emphasizes, "ADor is unable to process incomplete returns," and strongly encourages electronic filing for accuracy and speed.

For those unable to pay their taxes in full, ADOR offers a payment plan option for liabilities under $5,000. Setup is available online, and the department notes that processing of the plan request could take between two to eight weeks depending on billing status.

The ADOR Customer Care has extended hours for the remainder of the tax season to support taxpayers, with adjusted opening times on April 5, and Monday through Saturday, from April 7 to April 12.

Contact options for ADOR's Call Center are available for local and international inquiries.