How to File a Kentucky State Income Tax
If you live in America, it is more likely than not that you will have to file a federal tax return each year. In addition to filing a federal return, you will also have to file a state tax return in most states. The process for filing state tax returns varies, as each state has its own tax laws. For example, there is a specific procedure to file an individual state income tax return in Kentucky.
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Instructions
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How to File a Kentucky State Income Tax
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Collect all forms that establish your income for the previous calendar year. You will need the information on these forms to complete your Kentucky state income tax return. The most well-known example of such a form is an IRS W-2, which companies issue to employees. The Kentucky state version of this form is the K-2. If you worked as an independent contractor, you may receive a 1099 form from anyone for whom you worked. Kentucky does not require this form's submission with your state tax return unless the company withheld Kentucky state tax from your pay or the company dissolved, so if you do not receive a 1099 you may still file using bank statements or ledgers to tally up your income.
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Prepare your federal income tax return. Use the information from your federal return to prepare your Kentucky state income tax return as indicated on the Kentucky state forms.
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Determine which Kentucky state income tax form you must file. As of tax year 2009, full-year Kentucky residents may file form 740 or 740-EZ for individual income tax. File on form 740-NP if you only lived in Kentucky for part of the previous year or if your legal residence is in Kentucky but you spent the entire year elsewhere. Income from sources other than employment will require separate Kentucky tax forms.
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Choose your filing method. The Kentucky Department of Revenue lists several websites you may use to electronically file your taxes free of charge. Follow the directions on your chosen site to file. If you prefer to mail your return, you may do so by printing the appropriate tax form and manually filling it in or filling it online and printing it out. Follow the directions included with the tax form to fill it out. As of the 2009 tax year, you may request forms by calling 502-564-3658 or writing to FORMS, Kentucky Department of Revenue, Frankfort, KY 40620.
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Submit your completed Kentucky state income tax return. Mail the return in if you do not file electronically. As of the 2009 tax year, if you are due a refund you must mail your return to Refunds: Kentucky Department of Revenue, Frankfort, KY 40618-0006. If you owe Kentucky state taxes, mail your return and payment to Payments: Kentucky Department of Revenue, Frankfort, KY 40619-0008.
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Tips & Warnings
Time your filing appropriately. Electronically filed Kentucky state income tax returns take 10 to 14 business days to process; mailed returns may take up to 12 weeks.
Do not omit any taxable income. Failure to disclose taxable income may result in penalties.
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