Comptroller Shares Last-Minute Tax Tips

Are you scrambling at the last minute to file your 2010 taxes? Running around trying to remember everything that needs to be filled out and signed?

Maryland Comptroller Peter Francot's office released a few tips you should make sure to remember as the last hours before the filing deadline dwindle away:

• Don't forget to sign your return, this is the most common mistake.
• Double check all numbers, especially social security and bank accounts if you are planning to get your return direct deposited to your bank.
• The Comptroller's Office recommends taxpayers hire reputable tax preparers because you are ultimately responsible for what's on your return.
• If you're on this site, you're likely computer literate so you should e-file. It's fast, safe and easy and if you owe money, you get an extra week and a half to pay your balance. If you are getting money back, you'll get it within 72 hours with direct deposit.
• Finally, if you need an extension, you can get one until October if you file today and the Comptroller's Office will work with people who need to set up payment plans as long as they make contact with the office.

Taxpayers who owe and file their tax return electronically by April 18 can choose to have their payment direct debited and get an extra two weeks to pay. Payments must be scheduled for April 30 or earlier.

Due to the large volume of mail received in the final days before the tax deadline, taxpayers who file by paper and are expecting a refund should plan for a delay in receiving their money. To check the status of a refund, visit the Comptroller’s website or call 410-260-7701 or 1-800-218-8160.

“We pride ourselves in processing payments and refunds efficiently for millions of tax returns each year; however, as we get closer to the deadline, payments are given priority,” Franchot said in a press release last week. “So, taxpayers who file at the last minute by paper and are expecting a refund should expect a significant delay in receiving their check. I would also encourage those filers to consider e-filing next year.”

If you still would like to file by paper, the U.S. Post Office in Baltimore located at 900 E Fayette St., Room 118, will be open until midnight. TBD.com also compiled a list of post offices in the D.C. area that are open later, the last one closes at 10 p.m.

The comptroller has 12 branch offices across the state that are open until 7 p.m., with one in Upper Marlboro at the county's courthouse, 14735 Main Street, Room 083B.

Check out the comptroller's website for other locations and forms if you need them.

Josh Flynn contributed to this report.