Delinquent taxpayers will have one last shot to pay what they owe with lessened penalties and interest charges beginning later this month.
The Louisiana Department of Revenue announced this morning that the tax amnesty period for individuals and businesses will begin in two weeks on Monday, Nov. 16, and run through Dec. 15. It’s the third year in a row Louisiana is offering amnesty to those who haven’t paid what they owe, and it’s the last amnesty allowed by law until 2025.
“That is why it is so important for delinquent taxpayers to take advantage of this opportunity to make a fresh start with their taxes,” Secretary of Revenue Tim Barfield says in a news release. “We have made this process very simple, allowing taxpayers to make installment payments. The department is ready to assist them in clearing up their accounts.”
State lawmakers authorized the amnesty periods to help drum up money for the state’s budget. The goal of this year’s 30-day amnesty period is to raise $50 million. Those who agree to settle their back-owed tax debts will have to pay the full amount of delinquent taxes, but only 83% of the interest and 67% of the penalties due. Six-month installment plans are available.
Those eligible for amnesty include taxpayers who have failed to file a return, as well as those who failed to report all income or tax, those who claimed incorrect credits or deductions, those who misrepresented or omitted any taxes due and certain taxpayers under audit or in administrative or judicial litigation. Taxpayers involved in a criminal investigation or criminal litigation for taxes administered by LDR do not qualify for the amnesty program.
Beginning on Nov. 16, eligible taxpayers can apply for amnesty online at www.ldrtaxamnesty.com or call 1-866-782-9241 for more information.
