More than 1.9 million Minnesotans have filed their income tax returns this tax season with more than 1.1 million already having received their refunds. With the April 18 deadline for filing 2021 income tax returns quickly approaching, the Minnesota Department of Revenue offers tips for taxpayers who still need to file their returns.

Procrastination

E-file and choose direct deposit. Electronically filing your return and choosing direct deposit for your refund is the most secure and convenient way to file your taxes and get your refund. If your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $73,000 or less, you may qualify to file electronically for free. Visit http://www.revenue.state.mn.us to see if you qualify for free state and federal income tax filing.

Check return

Enter your name, and the names of any dependents, exactly as they appear on Social Security cards, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) cards or letters. Double-check bank routing and account numbers used on tax forms for direct deposit. Incorrect information on tax forms can result in refund delays.

File your return by the April 18 due date, even if you owe more than you can pay. Pay as much as you can by the due date and contact us as soon as possible to set up a payment agreement for the remaining balance.

Assistance

Free tax preparation services are available for those who qualify through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Tax-Aide programs. Some sites offer in-person options while others offer virtual services.

Choose a tax preparer carefully. If you’re using a professional tax preparer to do your taxes, take the time to ask about their training, their history preparing taxes, and their affiliations with various tax professional organizations.

Get time

You automatically have until October 17 to file before we charge a late filing penalty. You do not have to submit a separate form requesting extra time to file your Minnesota individual income tax return. This is for filing only. To avoid other penalties and interest, you must pay any tax owed by the April 18 due date and file your return by October 17.

Note: You can request a filing extension for your federal income taxes on the Internal Revenue Service website.

Now what?

Most returns are processed within 21 days of being accepted. Some returns may take longer. Track which of the four stages your refund is in and whether you need to take any action to allow us to complete processing your refund at www.

revenue.state.mn.us/wheres-my-refund.

If you move after filing your return, contact the department right away. That way anything sent to you will reach you, such as refund checks or requests for more information. You must do this even when requesting a direct deposit. Call 651-296-3781 or 1-800-652-9094 (toll-free) to change your address.