The Oregon Department of Revenue will begin processing e-filed 2023 state income tax returns on January 29th, the same day the Internal Revenue Service will begin processing federal returns. Paper returns will be started in February.
E-filed returns will be processed in the order they are received. However, as in years past, the department won't be issuing personal income tax refunds until after February 15th.
A refund hold is part of the department's tax fraud prevention effort and allows for confirmation that the amounts claimed on tax returns match what employers report on Forms W-2 and 1099.
E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refunds via direct deposit receive their money two weeks sooner that those who file paper returns and request checks.
Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own returns this year can file electronically at no cost using one of the state's free file options. Free guided tax preparation is available from several companies for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Free fillable forms are available for all income levels.
Using links from the department's website ensures that both taxpayers' federal and state return will be filed for free.
Free tax preparation services are available to low-to moderate-income taxpayers through AARP and CASH Oregon. United Way also offers free tax help through their MyFreeTaxes program. For more information, visit "oregon.gov/dor."
