January is a busy time for the Washington State Department of Revenue (Revenue), with state excise tax returns due by the end of the month from more than 500,000 taxpayers with active tax registrations.
The deadline for monthly filers is Monday, Jan. 25, 2016. Quarterly and annual filers have until Monday, Feb. 1, 2016, due to the return date falling on a Sunday.
Revenue advises taxpayers to prepare their returns early and, if needed, seek assistance sooner rather than later in the month. Wait times for help from Revenue’s tax specialists grow longer as the end of the month nears.
January is when the tax return due date converges for all businesses, whether they file on an annual, quarterly or monthly basis. All filers – even if they had no business activity but have an active tax registration account – must file a tax return by their due date.
Most businesses are required to use Revenue’s electronic tax filing system, E-file, to submit their returns and pay their taxes. Annual filers, who are not required to file online, may need help whether they file online, by mail or phone.
Revenue offers several options to help all taxpayers file their return on time:
- Call and talk to Revenue’s tax specialists: 800-647-7706
- Email tax questions. Revenue generally provides a response within two business days
- Use Revenue’s Live Chat service
- Visit one of Revenue’s offices located across the state
Callers can reach Revenue tax specialists between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays. Automated phone services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some services can be done through the automated phone system, including filing a “no business” return, requesting forms and updating basic business information.
Revenue provides additional information and tips for annual filers on its website.
