(Washington, DC) – The District of Columbia Office of Tax and Revenue is ensuring that every taxpayer is informed and prepared to meet the April 15 tax deadline by offering tips for a less taxing filing season.

“For an accurate return and to receive refunds quickly, I encourage all taxpayers filing a District tax return to use the free electronic Taxpayer Service Center (eTSC), which is available on our website www.taxpayerservicecenter.com/ 24 hours a day,7 days a week,” said Stephen M. Cordi, deputy chief financial officer for the Office of Tax and Revenue. “With eTSC, taxpayers can also pay their taxes online and check the status of their refund.”

Additional tips include:

• Attach all wage statements (W-2) or forms 1099 to validate the withholding amount.
• Sign the return. Both primary and secondary signatures are required if you and your spouse are filing jointly.
• Attach required schedules (federal and DC Schedules and federal return, if applicable).
• Complete dependents’ dates of birth on DC Schedule S.
• When filing a paper return and requesting direct deposit, indicate whether the refund should be deposited into checking or savings account. Providing a correct routing number and account number is required to ensure that your refund is deposited into your account.

OTR customer service representatives are also available to assist taxpayers in preparing their individual income tax returns Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This service can be accessed by visiting the walk-in service center at 941 North Capitol Street, NE, on the first floor, or by calling (202) 727-4TAX (4829).

Extended service hours will also be offered from 8:15 am to 7 pm March 31 to April 14; 8:15 am to 8 pm April 15; and 8:15 am to 8 pm every third Thursday.