Comptroller Franchot Urges Taxpayers to File Electronically as April 15th Deadline Approaches

Free Assistance Available at 12 Branch Offices 

Throughout the State

Annapolis, Md. – With the tax-filing deadline just over two weeks away, Comptroller Peter Franchot today urged taxpayers who have yet to submit a return to considering using the agency’s free online tax filing system, iFile or another electronic method.

“Electronic filing is the safest, easiest and fastest way to prepare and file a tax return,” Comptroller Franchot said. “Best of all, if you choose direct deposit, you’ll get your refund in only a few days.”

Comptroller Franchot reminds taxpayers to use all available preparation and filing resources at the agency’s website www.marylandtaxes.com or receive in-person assistance from staff in Annapolis and 12 local branch offices to meet the April 15th deadline.

“With the deadline nearing, the Comptroller’s Office can help make tax filing quick, easy and painless,” the Comptroller said. “If anyone is uncertain about how to file their taxes, they should visit one of my 12 branch offices to have their tax return prepared and filed free of charge.”

In addition to Annapolis, the agency has local offices in Baltimore, Cumberland, Elkton, Frederick, Hagerstown, Landover, Salisbury, Towson, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf and Wheaton. Complete addresses of branch offices can be found at marylandtaxes.com. Offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

To best serve each taxpayer, those seeking assistance in Annapolis or at one of the branch offices must bring the following items with them:
• W2 forms
• Form 1099 and a
• Completed federal return.

 

To date, more than 1.5 million taxpayers have filed their personal tax returns electronically with more than 96,500 filing via paper. Based on 3.04 million returns filed last year, about half of taxpayers have filed so far this tax season.

The agency’s call center offers extended hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 15, returning to normal business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. thereafter. To check the status of a refund by phone, please call, 1-800-218-8160 or 410-260-7701. Refund status can also be obtained by visiting the agency’s website at marylandtaxes.com.

For more information on electronic filing or any other tax-related matter, please go to the Comptroller’s website or call 410-260-7980 in Central Maryland or 1-800-MD-TAXES (1-800-638-2937) outside of Central Maryland.