Returns must be postmarked no later than May 1 to avoid potential penalties and interest. If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, then your return must be postmarked by the next business day.
If I owe tax, to whom should the check be made payable?
Checks should be made payable to Virginia Department of Taxation, and mailed with your return to the Commissioner of the Revenue
Does the Commissioner's office assist taxpayers in preparing their state tax return?
If you provide a complete copy of your Federal return and copies of your W-2's, the office will assist you.
Does the office also have federal forms?
Yes, but there is a limited selection.
If I file jointly on my Federal tax, do I have to file jointly on my State return?
In most cases, your filing status will be the same as the one you selected on your federal return. If you previously used Filing Status 4, you will now use Filing Status 2, and follow the instructions for line 16, Spouse Tax Adjustment.
If deductions were itemized on the Federal return, is it necessary to itemize on State?
Yes. If you claimed itemized deductions on your federal income tax return, you must claim itemized deductions on your Virginia income tax return.
What is the time limitation for filing for back taxes?
Statute of limitations is three years.
How quickly can I expect to get my refund?
Accelerated refunds usually take 4-7 days, a regular return takes six to eight weeks. The accelerated refund program was developed to allow Virginia residents to receive their refunds more rapidly. Each condition must be met before requesting this process:
You must have filed a Virginia Individual Income Tax Return for the prior taxable year.
Your filing status (single, joint, or separate), name and/or address has not changed from the previous tax year.
How long should I retain records for Federal and State Income filings?
Records should be kept at least seven to ten years.
Is every state return audited by the Commissioner's office?
Yes, however, this is done to check for mathematical error only.
