State Income Tax Returns Accepted Starting Jan. 19 With Enhanced Security Measures

The Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR) will begin accepting and processing 2015 state individual income tax returns on Tues, January 19. That’s the same day that processing begins at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The Department also enters this tax season with a focus on safeguarding taxpayers against fraud.

During the past two years, LDR has saved taxpayers more than $38 million through its anti-tax fraud initiatives. Additionally, more than 50 individuals have been arrested under a statewide initiative to crack down on tax fraud in Louisiana.

The department has responded to increasing occurrences of tax fraud by implementing enhanced security measures to protect Louisiana taxpayers. This means it will take additional time to process refunds. The expected refund processing time for returns filed electronically is up to 60 days. For paper returns, taxpayers should expect to wait 12 to 14 weeks.

LDR uses all available technology and resources to help protect and safeguard taxpayers against fraudulent activity. To protect taxpayers against fraud, including the suspicion of identity theft, a tax refund can be delayed while the department thoroughly reviews the suspicious tax return. When this occurs, the taxpayer is contacted through written correspondence with further instructions.

Beware of telephone scams purported to come from LDR and remember that LDR will not:

  • Call a taxpayer to demand immediate payment or call about taxes owed without first having mailed a bill.
  • Demand the payment of taxes without allowing the taxpayer to question or appeal the amount owed.
  • Require the use of a specific method of payment.
  • Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the telephone.
  • If taxpayer feels that they are a victim of a telephone tax scam, contact LDR Criminal Investigations Division on its fraud hotline at 866.940.7053.
  • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ftc.gov/complaint

Read the full Press Release on the LDR website

We can help you prepare an accurate State tax return and file it for you ensuring the accuracy and confidentiality of your information. Contact us today!

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