Department of Revenue News Release

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - With tax return filing season under way, the Missouri Department of Revenue has several suggestions to improve the processing, speed and accuracy of submitted tax returns.  The Department is also reminding Missourians that this year's tax filing deadline is April 17, which is two days later than the traditional deadline.

File electronically.  Electronic filing is a secure way to avoid errors and ensure a faster refund. E-filing is a service provided by almost all tax preparers, or individual citizens can purchase tax preparation software.  More than 70 percent of Missourians now file electronically.

Use electronic forms.  Even Missourians choosing not to E-file can still save time and reduce errors by using electronic forms, which can then be printed out and mailed in.  Missouri tax forms for Tax Year 2011 and other years are available on the Department's website at http://dor.mo.gov/forms/. 

These forms, which can be completed in one or more sittings, include a 2-D barcode that helps speed up the processing of the forms after they are mailed to the Department.  Direct deposit of a refund is also an option by those choosing to use the 2-D barcode forms. Saving drafts of confidential tax returns would not be recommended for people using public computers, such as in a library, where computer access is open to anyone. 

Ask questions over the phone or online.  The Missouri Department of Revenue answers many frequently asked questions about filing tax returns on the Department's website at www.dor.mo.gov.  Missourians can also call (573) 751-3505 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or by e-mailing the Department at income@dor.mo.gov with questions about filing tax returns.

Ask questions in person.  The Department also has tax assistance centers located in seven Missouri cities.  The centers are in Cape Girardeau; Jefferson City; Joplin; Kansas City; St. Joseph; St. Louis; and Springfield.  Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Contact information and office addresses are available at http://dor.mo.gov/contact/assistance.php.  

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