The last thing Hoosiers want to see in their mailbox is a tax bill, but ignoring it will only make the situation worse by piling on penalties and interest.
The Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR) began issuing notices on July 1 to taxpayers who have outstanding tax debt from the 2019 tax season. Bills will continue to be sent through September 2019 by the U.S. postal service.
“DOR is currently sending bills to individuals and businesses who still owe money to the State of Indiana based on their 2019 tax returns,” stated Commissioner Adam Krupp. “It is imperative that customers immediately open all mail from DOR. If it’s a bill, we ask that you please respond within 20 days to avoid additional penalties and interest as well as possible statutorily-required liens on your property.”
In addition to urging Hoosiers to never ignore DOR-related correspondence, the agency wants to make everyone aware that tax season and post-tax season are the most popular times for scam artists. Scammers will issue letters—with official markings to convince customers—urging them to call and take advantage of their services to help pay off a tax liability. Many will offer a “discount” if customers pay in full. However, the only result is unsuspecting customers handing over their hard-earned dollars while their liability continues to build with DOR.
To know if a tax bill is real, customer should look for:
- A recommendation to pay the bill through DOR’s website.
- A specific liability number used for reference to pay the bill.
- A DOR Customer Service phone number, which is not a 1-800 number.
“If you’re contacted to pay a bill and you question the legitimacy of the correspondence, first check the links and phone numbers provided; if you’re still doubtful, contact DOR directly before proceeding,” added Commissioner Krupp.
Customers can call DOR’s automated information line at 317-233-4018 to determine the current balance due on any tax bill. Individuals will need to have their taxpayer identification number (or Social Security number) and the liability or warrant number when calling.
Once the bill is verified, the easiest way to make payments is online through DORPay at dorpay.dor.in.gov. This allows customers to make payments via Visa, MasterCard or e-check. Additionally, e-check users have the option to schedule their payments for a future date.
Customers who owe $100 or more, may be able to set up a payment plan online through INtax Pay at intaxpay.in.gov. These payment plans can be started with little to no down payment. More information on payment plans can be found on DOR’s website at dor.in.gov/6389.htm.
Payments can also be made in person at one of DOR’s 12 district offices with a credit card, check, money order or cash (exact change only).
Customers with questions regarding any mail they receive from DOR may contact Customer Service at (317) 232-2240, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (EST), Monday through Friday.
