Tax filing season starts in Virginia: Tips to avoid delays and fraud

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia Tax has announced that tax filing season has begun, and offers tips for residents for a smooth tax season.

In a release shared on Monday, Jan. 26, Virginia Tax said that the tax filing season has begun for Virginians, and taxpayers can now begin to file their individual income tax returns.

“We strongly encourage you to file electronically,” said tax commissioner Kristin Collins. “As it’s the faster, safer option for taxpayers. We also recommend you request your refund, if you have one coming, via direct deposit.”

Virginia Tax also takes refund fraud incredibly seriously and encourages other Virginians to do the same. They have an automated system that reviews returns for any suspicious activity or possible fraud, which is then reviewed manually by employees, according to the release.

Filing taxes early ensures a faster refund if your return has been selected for review, per a release.

Virginia Tax created some steps to make sure your returns and refunds are not delayed:

• Have all W-2s, 1099s and any other information before filing for a return.
• Including your Virginia driver's license or identification card number on your return makes the return faster. Any return that does not include this information will be rejected.
• Double-check the spelling of your name, social security number and all calculations to ensure they are correct.
• If you have moved since filing your last return, use your current address.

For online service, Virginia Tax allows you to create your own account, where you can track your return or refund. Officials said you can check the status of your refund via the application portal or by calling 804-367-2486.