Filing your Idaho tax return for 2022 doesn't have to be difficult. Whether you are a small business owner, a part-time resident, or a single person who pays taxes, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. The Idaho State Tax Commission will give you the correct information so you know what forms to use, how to file, and what will happen after you send in your return.
Knowing if you need to file, how to pay, and how to check on your refund can help you avoid making common mistakes when you file. Knowing the exact filing requirements and deadlines will help you avoid missing out on essential credits or paying too much by mistake if you owe money or are expecting a refund. You can still file your taxes on paper, but most people get their refunds faster when they file online.
This guide will also show you how to ask for an extension, how long it might take to get your money back, and how to monitor your return if it is late. You'll find all the answers to common questions in one place, whether you mail them in your return or file them online. Let’s begin with what you need to know to file your 2022 Idaho tax return confidently.
Do You Need to File an Idaho Tax Return for 2022?
You may need to file a tax return for 2022 if you live in Idaho full-time or part-time or make money from Idaho sources. The Idaho State Tax Commission makes it clear who has to file by setting income limits that depend on where you live, how old you are, and whether or not you are filing.
Filing Requirements Based on Residency
1. Full-Year Residents
You must file an Idaho tax return if your gross income for 2022 meets or exceeds the required amount based on your filing status and age.
2. Part-Year Residents
You must file if you lived in Idaho for part of the year and made over $2,500 from Idaho sources.
3. If you did not live in Idaho but earned over $2,500 from Idaho sources, you must file an Idaho tax return.
2022 Gross Income Thresholds by Filing Status
Use the following minimum income levels to determine if you have to file. These limits apply to your gross income before any deductions:
- Single, under age 65: $14,600
- Single, age 65 or older: $16,550
- Married filing jointly, both under 65: $29,200
- Married filing jointly, one spouse 65 or older: $30,750
- Married filing jointly, both 65 or older: $32,300
- Married filing separately (any age): $5
- Head of household, under 65: $21,900
- Head of household, 65 or older: $23,850
If you're unsure if you should file, it's best to look at your income sources, filing status, and age to see if the state needs you to send in a return. If you don't file when you should, you could get in trouble, especially if you owe money. If you're expecting a refund, filing ensures you receive it.
Key Tax Changes in Idaho for 2022
There were a few significant changes to tax rules for the 2022 filing year, but many of the rules stayed the same. These changes could change how much you owe, how much you get back, or whether you qualify for certain credits.
Highlights for the 2022 Tax Year
- Standard deductions stayed the same as in 2021. These deductions reduce your taxable income before calculating how much you owe.
- Grocery Credit remains at $100 per person, with an additional $20 for taxpayers age 65 or older. This credit helps offset food costs.
- The Idaho Child Tax Credit continued at $205 per qualifying child, which may lower your overall liability unless specifically exempt.
- The $10 Permanent Building Fund tax remains in effect and applies to most individual taxpayers who file a specifically exempt return.
Because of these changes, it's even more important to carefully review your return, especially if you want to lower your tax bill or get a bigger refund. Using all of your available credits can significantly affect the status of your refund.
H2: Forms You Need to File Your Idaho Return
Choosing the proper forms is essential when filing your Idaho tax return. The forms you use depend on your residency status, income sources, and whether you're claiming deductions or credits.
Primary Forms
- Form 40: Use this if you were a full-year Idaho resident in 2022. It’s the standard individual income tax return for the state.
- Form 43: Required for part-year residents and nonresidents who earned more than $2,500 from Idaho sources.
- Form 39R: This supplemental form supports income adjustments and deductions. It’s filed alongside Form 40.
Additional Forms (Depending on Your Situation)
- Form 51: Submit this form if you’re making an extension or estimated tax payment.
- Form 44: Use this if you qualify for Idaho business income tax credits.
- Form CG: Required to claim the Idaho capital gains deduction.
- Form 75: This form applies if you owe or are due a refund on fuel taxes.
Be sure to use the most current versions of each form, available at the Idaho State Tax Commission website. Sending the wrong form or leaving out required documentation may delay your refund or affect the amount your owe.
H2: Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing Form 40
Form 40 is the primary Idaho tax return for full-year residents. Completing it correctly is essential, whether you expect a refund or need to pay.
What to Do Before You Begin
- Finish your federal return first. Your Idaho return relies on information from IRS Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
- Gather all required documents, including.
- W-2s and 1099s with Idaho withholding
- Records of deductions and expenses
- Prior-year state and federal returns
- Social Security numbers for everyone listed on the return
How to Complete Form 40
- Personal Information
Enter your full legal name, address, and Social Security number. If filing jointly, include your spouse’s details.
- Filing Status
Choose the same filing status you used on your federal return. Idaho does not allow a different status between federal and state filings.
- Household Information
Include the number of people in your household—yourself, spouse, and dependents.
- Income Details
- Line 7: Enter your federal adjusted gross income from your IRS Form 1040.
- Line 8: Report any additions using Form 39R.
- Line 10: Subtract any applicable deductions from Form 39R.
- Tax Computation
Use the correct standard deduction based on your filing status. Double-check whether you're eligible for any additional amounts for age or blindness.
- Credits and Payments
- Apply eligible credits such as the grocery credit or child tax credit.
- Enter any Idaho tax withheld and estimated payments already made.
- Calculate Refund or Amount Owed
Determine whether you owe money or are due a refund. If you owe, consider payment options to avoid late penalties.
Common Filing Errors to Avoid
- Use the correct deduction and credit amounts to avoid processing delays or reduced refunds.
- Always attach a complete copy of your federal return, as Idaho requires it to verify your state filing.
- Double-check all Social Security numbers for accuracy to prevent identity mismatches.
- Don’t forget to sign and date your return, or it will be considered invalid.
- Include the $10 Permanent Building Fund tax unless you qualify for an exemption.
Review your return for accuracy before you send it. Mistakes can delay your refund and result in penalties if you owe money.
How to File Your Idaho Tax Return
Idaho allows you to file your tax return either electronically or by mail. Both methods are accepted, but e-filing is generally faster and more accurate.
Electronic Filing (E-file)
- E-filing is the preferred method for most taxpayers because it reduces errors and speeds up refund processing.
- The Idaho State Tax Commission provides several free e-file options for qualifying individuals. These are available through approved tax preparation software listed on their website.
- E-filed tax returns are usually processed in 10 to 21 days. You'll receive confirmation when your return is accepted, and you can check your refund status online.
Paper Filing
If you choose to file a paper return, make sure to:
- Print using black ink.
- Include a complete copy of your federal return.
- Attach all required forms and schedules, such as Form 39R or Form 44, if applicable.
- Do not staple or clip documents together.
- Sign and date the return before mailing.
Mailing Instructions
Send your paper return to:
Idaho State Tax Commission
PO Box 56
Boise, ID 83756-0056
This is the correct address whether you’re including a payment, requesting a refund, or filing a zero-balance return. Always mail your return before the deadline to avoid late filing penalties.
H2: How to Pay Idaho Taxes or Request an Extension
If you owe money on your Idaho tax return, you have multiple options: you can make a payment or request more time to file.
Online Payment Options
- Use the Quick Pay portal to submit payments electronically.
- Accepted payment types include:
- ACH debit from a checking or savings account (free)
- Credit card or e-check (fees may apply)
- You can also schedule future-dated payments, which helps if you want to pay closer to the filing date but avoid missing the deadline.
Paying by Check or Money Order
- Make checks payable to: Idaho State Tax Commission
- Write your Social Security number on the check.
- Include your payment with your return, but do not staple it.
- You can still send a separate payment if you have already filed your return. There is a $20 fee for returned checks. You are not required to pay if the total tax due is less than $1.
Filing for an Extension
- Idaho offers an automatic six-month extension to file your return, but you must pay a minimum amount by the original deadline.
- You must pay at least one of the following by the due date to qualify:
- 90% of your 2022 tax liability
- 100% of your 2021 tax liability
- $300 if your 2021 AGI was $150,000 or less
- $500 if your 2021 AGI was more than $150,000
- Use Form 51 or the Quick Pay portal to make extension payments.
An extension gives you more time to file, but does not extend the deadline to pay. If you miss the payment deadline, you may owe interest and penalties.
H2: How to Track Your Refund or Balance Due
After filing your Idaho tax return, you can track your refund status or confirm whether you still owe money.
Tracking a Refund
- Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the Idaho State Tax Commission website.
- To check your refund, you’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- The exact refund amount listed on your return
- E-filed returns are typically processed within 10 to 21 days.
- Paper returns may take 6 to 8 weeks. If corrections are needed, expect longer delays—possibly 2 to 4 additional weeks.
What If You Owe a Balance?
If your tax return shows you owe money, you should pay as soon as possible:
- Use the Quick Pay portal to pay online instantly.
- If you cannot pay in full, contact the Tax Commission to discuss a payment plan.
- Payments can also be made by check, as explained in the previous section.
Interest and penalties begin to accrue immediately on any unpaid balance. The annual interest rate in 2023 is 5%, so paying promptly is essential to avoid additional charges.
Final Checklist Before You File
Before you file your Idaho tax return, take a moment to review this checklist. Ensuring your return is complete and accurate helps avoid delays, missed refunds, or penalties—especially if you owe money.
Required Documents
- Include your completed Form 40 or Form 43 if you were a part-year resident or earned Idaho income while living elsewhere.
- Attach a full copy of your federal return, as Idaho requires it for verification purposes.
- Provide all W-2s and 1099s that show Idaho tax withholding to support income reporting.
- Add any supporting schedules or forms, such as Form 39R, Form 44, or Form 40.
Review Your Return for Accuracy
- Double-check that all names and Social Security numbers are entered as shown on government-issued IDs.
- Ensure your filing status matches what you used on your federal return; Idaho does not allow different statuses.
- Confirm that you've claimed all applicable tax credits, such as the grocery or child tax credit.
- Verify that the standard deduction is correct based on your filing status and age.
- Include the $10 Permanent Building Fund tax unless you qualify for an exemption.
- Recheck all calculations to ensure they are accurate and complete.
- Sign and date the return, and if filing jointly, make sure both spouses have signed.
Mailing Instructions (Paper Returns)
- Keep copies of all documents submitted with your return for your records.
- Mail the return to the Idaho State Tax Commission at PO Box 56, Boise, ID 83756-0056.
- Avoid stapling or clipping any documents together to ensure smooth processing.
- If you include a payment, place it loosely in the envelope and do not attach it to your return.
Once filed, monitor your refund status or payment confirmation online. Retain any mailing receipts or electronic confirmation numbers in case follow-up is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I missed the date to file my Idaho tax return?
If you missed the due date for your Idaho tax return, you should file as soon as possible to limit penalties. The state charges a late filing penalty and interest if you owe money. Even if you expect a refund, filing late can delay the process. The longer you wait, the more you may owe. Mail or e-file your return promptly to avoid complications with your status or refund.
Can I e-file my Idaho tax return for free?
Yes, many taxpayers can file their Idaho tax return electronically at no cost. The state offers free e-file programs through approved providers. Can complete the entire process online without mailing paper returns. If you qualify, E-filing helps you receive your refund faster and reduces common errors. Visit the Idaho State Tax Commission’s website to check eligibility and apply through one of their trusted partners.
How can I track my Idaho tax refund status?
To check your Idaho tax refund status, visit the state’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool online. You’ll need your Social Security number and the exact refund amount from your return. If you e-filed, you can expect your refund within two to three weeks. Paper returns may take six to eight weeks or longer. Always check the status online before contacting the Idaho State Tax Commission with questions.
What happens if I owe money but can’t pay by the due date?
If you owe money and can’t pay your Idaho tax return by the due date, you should still file your return on time to avoid additional penalties. You can apply for a payment plan or send a partial payment to reduce future interest. Payments can be made online or by check. The Idaho State Tax Commission also offers installment agreements if you meet certain conditions.
Can I amend my Idaho tax return after it’s been filed?
You can file an amended Idaho tax return if you discover an error or need to update information. Use Form 40 and mark it as an amended return. Include an explanation and the corrected amounts. Mail the form along with any supporting documents. If the amendment results in a refund, expect the process to take several weeks. You may also owe money if the correction increases your liability.
How long should I keep copies of my Idaho tax return?
You should keep copies of your Idaho tax return and all supporting documents for at least seven years. This includes paper returns, electronic confirmations, W-2s, 1099s, and receipts. This information is essential if the state or IRS has questions or sends a notice. If you receive a refund or apply for credits, having records on file helps resolve issues quickly and ensures accurate future filings.
Do I need to mail my Idaho return if I file it electronically?
No, if you successfully e-file your Idaho tax return, there is no need to send paper returns by mail. The process is complete once you receive electronic confirmation. However, if you file by mail or are required to send documents, follow the official mailing address and instructions. Always keep a copy of your return and confirmation, whether you file electronically or by mail.
