Six tips for filing Idaho taxes

Wednesday April 2, 2025

BOISE, Idaho – April 2, 2025 – As the April 15 deadline for filing income tax returns approaches, the Idaho State Tax Commission is offering six tips to make the process smoother:

1. E-file your return
Filing your return electronically has many benefits that include:

• The software helps with the math.
• You get a confirmation email.
• Your electronic filing provider keeps a record of your tax return.
• You get a faster refund than if you file by paper. Refunds generally arrive in about seven to eight weeks when you e-file versus 10 to 11 weeks when you file a paper return. Using direct deposit gets the refund to you even faster.

2. See if you qualify to e-file your return for free
Most Idahoans can prepare and e-file their federal and Idaho taxes for free through two programs offered by the Idaho State Tax Commission and the IRS.

• The new Direct File program is for Idahoans with simple returns. To use the program, you must have lived in Idaho for all of 2024 and must take the standard deduction. You can’t itemize, but you can take certain credits and deductions.
• If your adjusted gross income is $84,000 a year or less, you probably qualify for the Free File program. It features offers from software companies that partner with Idaho and the IRS.

To access the free e-filing programs, visit tax.idaho.gov. Click on E-file Income Taxes for Free on the home page.

3. Take advantage of free tax help
You might be able to get free help preparing your income tax return at volunteer tax preparation sites throughout Idaho. To find a site near you, visit the Tax Commission website at tax.idaho.gov. Click on the Free Income Tax Help link on the home page. You can also find site information by going to IRS.gov.

The free help is intended for senior citizens and people with low to moderate incomes who have simple federal and Idaho tax returns. All sites offer electronic filing for faster refunds. Some offer help in Spanish or use virtual interpreter services.

4. Make sure your return is complete
Incorrect or missing information will delay a refund.

• Double-check your figures to make sure you have no typos. Also, confirm your Social Security numbers.
• Make sure you list your current mailing address.
• If you e-file, make sure you enter your employer’s correct Employer Identification Number (EIN) and state ID number from your W-2s.
• If you file by paper:
  • Include all your W-2s and a complete copy of your federal return.
  • Make sure both you and your spouse sign if you’re filing a joint return.

5. Pay electronically if you owe taxes
Schedule electronic payments by using the Quick Pay service at tax.idaho.gov/quickpay. Choose the free ACH debit option to pay with your bank account. Or pay through e-file providers that offer free direct debit.

6. Respond to any Tax Commission letters asking for more information
All income tax returns go through fraud detection reviews and accuracy checks before Idaho issues any refunds. If you receive a letter from the Tax Commission, follow the instructions in the letter. Processing your refund will continue once you provide the needed information.