Personal tax tip #57

Filing your Maryland return electronically

Electronic filing is the fastest way to file your Maryland income tax and receive your refund. If you file electronically and choose direct deposit of your refund, we will transfer the funds to your bank account within several days from the date your return is accepted and processed.

There are three easy choices to file your Maryland return online:

• From our Web site
  • Visit our Web site at www.marylandtaxes.com
  • If you meet certain requirements, you can file Form 502, Form 503 or Form 505 online free of charge.
  • To use our free electronic filing service, you will need Internet access with Netscape Navigator 4.0 or Microsoft Explorer 4.0.
• From your PC
  • You can file electronically from your personal computer, using approved software and link to the provider's site to file online from your PC, or link directly to a provider site to prepare your return and file online.
  • For more information about online filing, visit www.marylandtaxes.com.
• Use a tax professional
  • There are thousands of commercial tax preparers who are approved by the IRS and the Maryland Comptroller's Office to file your federal and Maryland tax returns electronically.
  • Look for the authorized e-file provider signs - and just ask.
  • Find a qualified preparer.

Pay by direct debit or credit card

Even if you owe tax, you can file electronically and pay your balance of taxes due by direct debit or with a credit card, using MasterCard, Discover, American Express or VISA. If you file electronically by April 15 deadline, you have until April 30 to make your electronic payment. For more information, visit www.marylandtaxes.com or see Instruction 24 in the Maryland tax booklet.