When Does Indiana Start Accepting Tax Returns?
Get the essential timeline and procedural details for the Indiana tax season, from when the state starts accepting returns to how to track your refund.
This article provides key dates and procedures for the upcoming Indiana state tax filing season. The information covers when the state will begin processing returns and the available methods for submission.
Key Filing Dates for Indiana Taxpayers
The Indiana Department of Revenue will begin accepting electronically filed individual income tax returns for the 2024 tax year in early 2025, aligning with the IRS start date. The primary deadline for most Indiana taxpayers to file their state tax returns, such as Form IT-40 for full-year residents, is April 15, 2025. This date is also the deadline for paying any taxes owed to avoid penalties and interest.
For individuals needing more time to prepare their returns, Indiana provides an automatic extension. This extends the filing deadline to November 17, 2025. Note that this is an extension to file, not to pay; at least 90% of the tax liability must be paid by April 15, 2025, to waive late-payment penalties.
How to File Your Indiana Return
Electronic filing is the most encouraged method and can be accomplished through the state’s official online portal, INTIME (Indiana Taxpayer Information Management Engine), or by using commercially available tax preparation software from approved vendors. INTIME allows for direct filing and management of your tax account.
Alternatively, you can file by mail. After completing the appropriate paper forms, such as the IT-40 or IT-40PNR for part-year residents, you must mail them to the address specified in the form’s instructions. Ensure the envelope is postmarked by the filing deadline to be considered on time.
Checking Your Refund Status
After submitting your return, you can monitor the status of your state refund through the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the Indiana DOR’s INTIME website. To use this service, you will need to provide your Social Security number, the tax year of the refund, and the exact refund amount shown on your return. This tool provides the most current information available regarding the processing of your refund.
The time it takes to receive a refund varies based on the filing method. Electronically filed returns are processed faster, with refunds issued in a few weeks. Paper-filed returns take longer to process due to manual entry and verification, potentially delaying a refund for several weeks or more.