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The State of Oregon is offering taxpayers tax amnesty – a chance to get caught up. Tax amnesty is an opportunity for taxpayers to file or amend tax returns in exchange for a waiver of penalty and partial interest. This program is only available to those who have not yet filed their back taxes, who already owe a tax debt and does not apply to tax year 2008.

Important things to know:

* Applications must be filed between October 1, 2009 and November 19, 2009.
* Tax returns must be filed between October 1, 2009 and January 19, 2010.

What taxes and tax periods are included?

Amnesty is available for all tax years or periods prior to 2008.

* Personal Income taxes,
* Lane and Tri-Met Transit District self-employment taxes,
* Corporate income and excise taxes, and
* Trust and estate income taxes.

Inheritance tax returns originally due before January 1, 2008. This means the date of death must have been prior to April 1, 2007.

What are the benefits of participating in tax amnesty?

* Full waiver of all penalties otherwise due under Oregon law; penalties can be more than the actual tax owed.
* Waiver of half the interest owed.

Who qualifies for tax amnesty?

* Taxpayers who have past due tax returns,
* Taxpayers who have filed returns but need to amend them.

Who does not qualify for tax amnesty?

* Taxpayers who already received a bill for tax from the department for a year they’d like to apply for amnesty.
* Taxpayers who need to file returns for
o tobacco taxes;
o employer withholding taxes; or
o tax programs not specifically stated above.

You will get amnesty if you meet all the above requirements, and:

* File an amnesty application with the Department of Revenue between October 1, 2009 and November 19, 2009. Your application must ask for amnesty on all required years.
* File your returns no later than January 19, 2010.
* Pay the entire tax liability plus one-half of the interest due.

Remember, you must write “Amnesty” across the top of all returns filed under the amnesty program. No extensions are available for the amnesty program. It would be wise to take advantage of this program while it is being offered. You will save money on interest and penalties (penalties can add up to more than the actual amount of taxes owed), while helping to alleviate the stress of knowing you have not filed your past tax returns.

Posted by JK Harris & Company