Income tax filing deadline is April 17

MADISON -- The income tax deadline is April 17th and Wisconsin Department of Revenue officials are encouraging filing an extension for those who are unable to file on time. State income tax returns must be postmarked by midnight on the 17th.

If you will not meet the tax filing deadline, you must request an extension from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by April 17 to avoid penalties.

CLICK HERE to request an extension through the IRS website (IRS.gov).

Taxpayers who file an extension request with the IRS automatically receive a state extension. You do not need to submit a separate extension request with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

With an extension, you have until October 15, 2012, to file your state income tax return and pay your taxes without penalty. However, 1% interest will accrue each month on the amount due until it is paid in full.

You can avoid the interest charges by making estimated tax payments (use 2011 Form 1-ES) for the amount you expect to owe.

If you file electronically, keep a copy of the IRS’ federal extension application (Form 4868) for your records which shows that you filed an extension request. If you file on paper, attach a copy of the IRS' federal extension application to your Wisconsin tax return.

If you cannot pay your taxes in full, you can request a payment plan online.

CLICK HERE to request a payment plan via the Wisconsin Department of Revenue website.

Free tax assistance is available for low-to-moderate income residents, seniors, veterans and those with disabilities. Call 211 to find a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) site in your area.

VITA - 1-800-906-9887

TCE - 1-888-227-7669

CLICK HERE for more information on tax assistance via the Wisconsin Department of Revenue's website.