The Missouri Department of Revenue will begin accepting electronically filed state tax returns for tax year 2021 on Jan. 24, the same day the IRS will begin accepting federal tax returns for individual filers. As Missourians prepare to file their tax returns, the Department is reminding customers of some best practices and available resources that can help ensure a smooth tax season:

Review important individual income tax changes effective for the 2021 tax year. Refer to the Department’s “What’s New?” (https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/tax-types/income/year-changes/) resource for details on changes to the Missouri standard deduction, the federal tax deduction and more.

File electronically and use direct deposit. Electronic filing is a fast, accurate and secure way to file your return. Individuals who e-file can have their refund deposited directly into their bank account and generally receive their refund faster than those who file using a paper return.

Many Missourians may qualify for free e-filing services through the Free File Alliance, which allows eligible taxpayers to file their federal and state income tax returns using approved software. For more information, visit the IRS Free File (https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free) website or the Department’s Online Filing resource page.

Double-check your paper return. Before submitting a paper return to the Department, make sure it is signed, all math computations are correct and all necessary documentation is included. Also, use the correct PO Box when mailing your return. For individuals with a balance due, send the return and check to: Missouri Department of Revenue, PO Box 329, Jefferson City, MO 65105-0329. For individuals who are due a refund or owe nothing, send the return to: Missouri Department of Revenue, PO Box 500, Jefferson City, MO 65105-0500.

Missouri tax forms for the 2021 tax year and prior years are available on the Department’s website. All forms and corresponding instructions can be printed directly from the website. Electronic forms print with a 2-D barcode that helps speed up processing.

Review tax credit guidelines and attach all required documentation. Individuals who are eligible for a tax credit must complete and attach Form MO-TC to their return. All supporting documentation or required forms, schedules, certifications, etc., must also be included with their Form MO-TC and return. Visit the Department’s Miscellaneous Tax Credits page for additional information.

The Missouri Property Tax Credit Claim gives credit to certain senior citizens and 100 percent disabled individuals for a portion of the real estate taxes or rent they have paid for the year. Individuals who rent from a facility that does not pay property taxes are not eligible for a Property Tax Credit.

You can now file your Property Tax Credit Claim online, quickly and easily, from the comfort of your home or on your mobile device.

Review and update your Employee’s Withholding Certificate (Form MO W-4), if applicable. Employees can complete a “Paycheck Checkup” using the Department’s withholding calculator to determine if their employer is withholding their preferred amount from their paycheck. The Department strongly encourages all employees to review their federal and state withholdings annually and whenever a major life change has occurred.

The due date for 2021 tax returns is April 18, 2022.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story