Where to Mail Louisiana State Tax Return: Addresses and Key Steps

Filing your Louisiana state tax return correctly requires knowing where to send it, ensuring all required documents are included, and selecting the best mailing method. Sending it to the wrong address or omitting necessary paperwork can cause delays or penalties.

Official Mailing Address for Returns With Payment

If submitting a return with a payment, use the designated address to ensure proper processing:

Louisiana Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 201
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0201

Make checks or money orders payable to the Louisiana Department of Revenue, and include your Social Security number or Louisiana Revenue Account Number to ensure accurate crediting.

Official Mailing Address for Returns Without Payment

For returns without a payment, send them to:

Louisiana Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 3440
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3440

Mailing to the wrong address can cause delays, as misrouted returns must be redirected before processing. Ensure your return is complete and signed to avoid additional processing time.

Required Documents to Enclose

A complete return includes more than just the tax form. Attaching the right documents minimizes delays and reduces the need for follow-ups from the Louisiana Department of Revenue.

Include a copy of your federal return if your state filing depends on federal income, deductions, or credits. The state cross-references this information, and providing it upfront can speed up processing.

For tax credits, deductions, or exemptions, attach supporting documentation. For example, the School Readiness Tax Credit requires certification from the Louisiana Department of Education. If deducting federal income taxes paid, include an IRS tax transcript or proof of payment. Missing documents can lead to adjustments or denied claims.

If you have multiple income sources, include copies of all W-2s and 1099s. Louisiana requires full income reporting, including out-of-state earnings. If you paid taxes to another state, include proof to claim a credit for those payments.

Mailing Method Considerations

Your mailing method affects processing time and provides proof of submission. Standard first-class mail is common but lacks tracking. If lost or delayed, there’s no way to confirm it was sent.

Certified mail with return receipt requested provides proof of mailing and delivery. This can help resolve disputes over filing dates, as tax authorities accept the postmark as proof.

Private carriers like FedEx or UPS offer expedited delivery but require a physical address instead of a P.O. Box. If using this option, confirm the correct destination before shipping.

Steps to Confirm Receipt

After mailing your return, verifying receipt helps prevent issues like lost documents or delayed refunds.

The Louisiana Taxpayer Access Point (LaTAP) allows you to track processing, view account balances, and check refund status. If your return isn’t recorded within a reasonable time, contact the Louisiana Department of Revenue.

If you used certified mail or a private carrier, your delivery confirmation serves as proof. If you sent it via standard mail and need confirmation, calling the department’s customer service line can provide reassurance.

If a return is lost or not recorded, having copies of all submitted documents and proof of mailing can help resolve discrepancies and prevent late filing penalties.