According to the Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR), a few simple steps can help to avoid unnecessary delays for state income tax refunds.
Many refunds are delayed unnecessarily because of common errors and omissions. One leading cause of a delayed refund is the taxpayer's failure to check the change of address box on the tax return. Any refund sent to an incorrect address is returned to LDR by the post office. If you have moved since you last filed your taxes, be sure to update your address.
Steps to avoid delayed refunds include:
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File electronically. The average processing time for refunds is ten business days when using electronic options such as Louisiana File Online, the state’s free tax filing web application. For paper returns, the processing time is 12 to 16 weeks.
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You can file online at: http://revenue.louisiana.gov/sections/eservices/LAFileOnline.aspx
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Double check the accuracy of your return. Ensure that all Social Security numbers and tax computations are correct. Math errors and incorrect tax table information are leading causes of delayed refunds.
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Include all supporting documentation such as W-2s. Use paperclips, not staples, if filing a paper return.
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Don’t forget to sign the return.
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Update your mailing address with the United States Postal Service and the Louisiana Department of Revenue.
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Do not include copies of the federal return with the state return.
To check your tax refund status:
To check the status of your individual income tax refund, you will need to enter the following information: Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of refund shown on your return. If a joint tax return was filed, either the primary or spouse's social security number can be entered.
Check Online: Taxpayers can check the status of their individual income tax refunds on the Web site of the Louisiana Department of Revenue at: http://esweb.revenue.louisiana.gov/wheresmyrefund/
Check by Phone: You can also check on the status of your individual income tax refund by calling the Automated Individual Income Refund Inquiry at toll-free 1-888-829-3071. If you are calling from Baton Rouge, call (225) 922-3270. his system is available 24 hours a day.
Comprehensive information about the Louisiana Income Tax is available on the Web site of the Louisiana Department of Revenue at: http://revenue.louisiana.gov/
For additional information, contact the Louisiana Department of Revenue at:
Phone: (225) 219-7462 or (225) 219-0102
Email by completing the form at: http://esweb.revenue.louisiana.gov/ContactUs/default.aspx
