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The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue has expanded its call center hours to help residents meet the Pennsylvania tax filing deadline. Starting April 8, taxpayers will have more opportunities to speak directly with trained staff as they file taxes and prepare their income tax return ahead of Tax Day on April 15.

Extended Hours from the Department of Revenue

The Department of Revenue will keep its Customer Experience Center open longer during the week leading up to the filing deadline. From April 8 through April 11, phone lines will operate from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with additional Saturday hours on April 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The extended schedule concludes on April 14 and Tax Day, April 15, when representatives will again be available until 7 p.m.

These longer hours are designed to accommodate taxpayers who may not be able to call during regular business hours. Residents can reach staff at 717-787-8201 to ask questions about their tax return, check the tax refund status, or clarify payment requirements before the deadline.

Who Needs to File Taxes in Pennsylvania

All taxpayers who earned more than $33 in gross taxable income during tax year 2024 must submit a Pennsylvania income tax return by the April 15 filing deadline. This rule applies regardless of whether a resident owes additional taxes or is due a refund.

The state system is separate from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), meaning residents must complete both federal income tax and Pennsylvania returns. While the original due date typically aligns with the federal Tax Day, the state enforces filing rules, forms, and processing systems.

Extensions, Penalties, and Payment Rules

The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue reminds residents that requesting an automatic extension provides additional time to file taxes but does not extend the deadline to pay what is owed. Both the state and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allow a federal extension, but taxpayers must still make their payment by the due date to avoid penalties and interest.

The next business day becomes the official tax filing date if the filing deadline falls on a weekend or legal holiday. Missing the deadline can result in late fees, interest charges, and delayed tax refund processing. Officials emphasize that filing electronically is the most secure option and helps ensure faster confirmation and refunds.

How Pennsylvania’s Tax Filing System Works

Pennsylvania operates its tax filing system separately from the Internal Revenue Service, meaning residents must complete a federal income tax return and a state tax return each tax year. While the filing deadline usually aligns with the federal tax day, the state maintains its forms, processing, and compliance rules.

If the original due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the next business day automatically becomes the official deadline. This ensures taxpayers have clarity on when to file and pay to remain in good standing with both the IRS and the Department of Revenue.

To simplify the process, the Pennsylvania department offers multiple support options, including myPATH, a secure online tool that allows residents to file taxes without creating a login. District offices remain open during regular business hours for in-person assistance, though appointments are encouraged.

Statement from the Department of Revenue

From experience, we know it can be helpful for taxpayers to speak directly with one of our trained representatives if they have a question about their income tax return,” said Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne. “That’s why we extend our call center hours each April, ensuring residents have access to our staff as the filing deadline approaches.

This message reflects the department’s broader strategy to strengthen taxpayer support and make filing taxes on time, claiming a refund, or arranging a payment before Tax Day easier.

What Taxpayers Should Do Before the Deadline

The extended schedule gives residents additional time to resolve filing questions, submit their income tax return, and make any required payment by April 15. Officials urge taxpayers to file electronically to ensure faster processing, stronger security, and quicker delivery of any tax refund.

Those unable to meet the filing deadline should request an extension in advance, but they must still pay what is owed by the due date to avoid penalties and interest. Filing ahead of Tax Day also reduces stress, prevents errors, and helps ensure compliance with the IRS and the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.

Where to Find Official Tax Filing Information

The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue offers forms, instructions, and refund tools on its official site. Federal filing and extension details are available through the IRS to guide taxpayers before the April 15 filing deadline.