MD Comptroller To Temporarily Stop Processing Paper Tax Returns

MARYLAND — Taxpayers are being urged by Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot to file electronically as soon as possible. Effective April 15, the agency will temporarily stop processing paper tax returns in an effort to keep essential employees safe amid the spread of the new coronavirus.

“We remain committed to getting refunds into taxpayers’ bank accounts during this economic crisis. However, we must balance that with our commitment to protecting the health of those dedicated essential employees who have continued reporting to work to process returns and distribute refunds in a timely manner,” Franchot said in a statement.

Most taxpayers receiving refunds have already filed and the number of those anticipating refunds who haven't filed yet and plan to file via paper returns is very low. The deadline for individuals and businesses to file and pay state income taxes was previously extended until July 15.

To date, the number of both paper and electronic tax returns filed during the 2020 tax year has decreased from last year’s totals at the same time period — a drop of 27 percent in paper returns and 7.5 percent in electronic filings.

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The decision to temporarily stop processing paper returns after April 15 will reduce the number of staff who are required to work on site. The electronic filing process requires minimal human intervention. Franchot said it is cost-effective and it is a more secure way to submit taxes at a time when tax fraud and identity theft schemes are on the rise across the nation.

For those taxpayers who must file paper returns and are anticipating a refund, Franchot encourages them to do so by April 10 to ensure they will be processed before the April 15 temporary suspension.

The agency will continue to monitor the situation closely and could alter the schedule if necessary.

“I commend our employees — both the small group of staff still reporting to the office, as well as those working from home — for their continued commitment to the taxpayers who pay their salaries and who are relying on their refunds to make it through these incredibly difficult economic circumstances,” said Franchot.

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