Weekly Column for Feb. 14, 2019
Last fall, the Department of Revenue announced that they had discovered an error in the state’s tax withholding tables. This error was exposed because of recent changes to the federal tax code. Due to this error, individuals who normally expect to receive a refund may not receive one because the state has been withholding less money from their paychecks throughout the year. In addition, those who normally do not expect a tax bill from the state may end up writing an unexpected check due to the same error.
During my meetings with the Department of Revenue, they have been very clear about their commitment to continuously improving the services they provide to the citizens of Missouri. Below are a few of the resources the department has set up to help citizens affected by the error in the state’s tax tables.
- The department has created a dedicated phone line for customers who have questions about their 2018 return. Customers can dial (573) 522-0967 for assistance.
- Customers who are unable to immediately resolve their tax obligation may set up a payment plan with the department, either online or by phone. Internet installment agreements can be accessed at mo.gov/cacs/.The department encourages customers to utilize the online service, which is quick, secure and offers the same options as are available by phone.
- Taxation Division call center agents will be offering abatement of penalties and will work with customers to adjust balances for interest as part of conversations with taxpayers who have a balance due.
- The department is following the Internal Revenue Service’s lead and will not impose penalties for underpayment of estimated tax, provided that the taxpayer has paid at least 85 percent of the tax owed by April 15, 2019. The standard threshold is 90 percent.
- If a customer is still unable to pay their taxes after all traditional payment options have been exhausted, the department will evaluate if an Offer in Compromise agreement is an appropriate next step. Customers can dial (573) 522-0967 for assistance.
- Taxpayers can once again sign up to receive automatic text and email alerts each time the status of their state tax return is updated. To enroll in alerts, customers need three pieces of information: their Social Security number, filing status and anticipated refund or balance due. To access the Missouri Return Inquiry System and sign up for automatic text and email alerts, please visit mo.gov/returnstatus/.
Please do not hesitate to contact my office at (573) 751-3678 or by email at dave.schatz@senate.mo.gov if you have any questions.