(Washington, DC) - The District of Columbia Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) encourages individuals and businesses that are not current in filing their District tax returns to come forward voluntarily to bring their accounts into compliance. 

If a taxpayer or business has failed to pay District taxes or has underreported income on which taxes should be paid, the taxpayer may contact OTR to make satisfactory arrangements to clear their tax record.

“Any taxpayer can apply to remedy any tax obligation under the voluntary disclosure except for tax liabilities under the authority of the Real Property Tax Administration,” said Stephen M. Cordi, deputy chief financial officer for tax and revenue. “This program not only helps the city get revenue it is owed but sends a signal that we are willing to work with residents to help them in meeting their tax obligation.”

Benefits of participating in the program:

• Taxpayers can remain anonymous while investigating whether this program is right for them or their business;
• In most cases, OTR will agree to limit the “look-back” period to the lesser of three years or the date when the taxpayer established business in the District;
• Waiver of penalties if the tax and interest is paid in full;
• OTR may agree to establish a payment agreement if an adequate amount is paid in full; and
• The ability to file returns in a spreadsheet format instead of filing a return for each period involved.

If a taxpayer has been contacted by OTR or its representatives, the Multistate Tax Commission, or MBIA MuniServices, the taxpayer is not eligible for the voluntary disclosure program.

For additional information on the Voluntary Compliance Program, please contact Wayne Nickum, senior tax auditor, via e-mail at Wayne.Nickum@dc.gov or at (202) 442-6586.