Filing Your Connecticut Tax Return 2019: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are unfamiliar with the process, filing your Connecticut state income tax return for 2019 can feel overwhelming. This guide explains how to file your Connecticut tax return to meet state requirements confidently. It is designed for individuals, small business owners, part-year residents, and nonresidents who earned income in Connecticut during the 2019 tax year.

Whether you are filing independently or with professional assistance, understanding the required forms, deadlines, deductions, and credits can help you avoid costly mistakes. This article will walk you through each process stage, determining if you need to file, selecting the correct forms, and submitting your return electronically or by mail. You will also learn how to track your refund, make payments, and claim valuable benefits such as the earned income tax credit.

Accuracy and compliance are essential when preparing a state tax return. The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) provides resources, tools, and services to assist taxpayers, but knowing what to expect before you start can save time and reduce errors. Following the steps in this guide, you can efficiently complete your 2019 state tax return for Connecticut, ensure all schedules are included, and take advantage of deductions or credits you qualify for.

Overview of Connecticut State Income Tax for 2019

Understanding how Connecticut’s income tax rules applied in 2019 is essential before you prepare your return. Knowing who must file, when deadlines apply, and what changes took effect ensures that you can complete your return accurately and take advantage of all benefits.

Who Needs to File Connecticut Tax Returns

You must file a 2019 Connecticut resident income tax return if you were a resident for the entire year and met one of the following income thresholds:

Single filers: You had $15,000 or more in gross income.
Married filing separately: You had $12,000 or more in gross income.
Head of household: You had $19,000 or more in gross income.
Married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er): You had $24,000 or more in gross income.

You must also file a Connecticut tax return for 2019, even if your gross income was below the filing thresholds. This applies when specific circumstances require a return to be submitted, including:

Connecticut income tax withheld: If your employer withheld any state income tax from your paychecks, you must file to reconcile the amount withheld and determine whether you are due a refund.
Estimated tax payments: If you made estimated tax payments to the state during 2019, you must file to apply those payments toward your final tax liability.
Eligibility for the Connecticut earned income tax credit: Filing is required to claim this credit, which can reduce the taxes you owe or increase your refund.
Federal alternative minimum tax liability: If you were subject to the federal AMT, you must report and adjust for its impact on your Connecticut tax return.
Pass-Through Entity Tax Credit claims: If you are entitled to claim a Pass-Through Entity Tax Credit, filing is necessary to apply the credit against your Connecticut tax due.

Filing Deadlines

Standard deadline: April 15, 2020.
COVID-19 extension: Extended to July 15, 2020.
Extension deadline: October 15, 2020 (with Form CT-1040EXT).

Extensions only provide you more time to file, not to pay. If you owed taxes, they were still due by the original April deadline to avoid interest and penalties.

Key Changes for Tax Year 2019

Several updates for the 2019 tax year may affect your income tax return for Connecticut:

Social Security benefit exemptions: Increased income thresholds allowed more taxpayers to exclude Social Security benefits from state taxes.
Pension and annuity income deduction: Based on federal AGI limits, a new 14% deduction was available for qualifying taxpayers.
Teachers’ Retirement System exclusion: Eligible teachers could exclude 25% of their retirement system income from Connecticut Adjusted Gross Income.
Pass-Through Entity Tax Credit change: The credit for individual members of pass-through entities was reduced to 87.5% of their share of PE tax paid.

What Forms to Use

Selecting the correct Connecticut tax forms is crucial to filing your 2019 Connecticut tax return. The forms you need depend on your residency status, income sources, and the credits or deductions you plan to claim. Filing with the proper forms ensures that your return is processed without delays and that you can claim all benefits.

Main Individual Income Tax Forms

Form CT-1040—Connecticut Resident Income Tax Return: This is for residents who lived in the state for the entire 2019 tax year.
Form CT-1040NR/PY – Nonresident and Part-Year Resident Income Tax Return: For individuals who lived in Connecticut for part of the year or earned income from Connecticut sources while living elsewhere.

Common Schedules and Supporting Forms

If you need to make adjustments to your federal AGI, claim credits, or report specific types of income, you may also need to file one or more of the following schedules:

Schedule 1—Modifications to Federal Adjusted Gross Income: This section includes additions or subtractions such as military retirement pay, Social Security benefit exemptions, and pension or annuity deductions.
Schedule 2 – Credit for Income Taxes Paid to Other States: For filers who earned income in another state and paid taxes there.
Schedule 3 – Property Tax Credit: For eligible homeowners and renters meeting age or dependent criteria.
Schedule 4—Individual Use Tax: This is for reporting purchases made out of state for which Connecticut sales tax was not paid.
Schedule CT-EITC – Connecticut Earned Income Tax Credit: This schedule allows individuals to claim a percentage of the federal earned income tax credit.
Schedule CT-PE – Pass-Through Entity Tax Credit: This is for members of pass-through entities claiming credit for entity-level taxes paid.

Extension and Payment Forms

Form CT-1040EXT – Application for Extension of Time to File: This form allows you to request an extension of up to six months for filing your tax return.
Form CT-1040V—Connecticut Electronic Filing Payment Voucher: This form sends payments when you file electronically.

All official Connecticut tax forms for 2019 can be accessed and downloaded through the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Complete Your Return

Filing your Connecticut income tax return for 2019 involves several stages, from gathering records to submitting the completed forms. Following each step carefully will help you avoid delays and ensure your return is processed accurately.

Step 1 – Gather Required Documents

Before you begin, organize all documents needed to prepare your return. This preparation will help you review information for accuracy and prevent missing items that could delay your refund.

Income records: Collect all Forms W-2 from your employer, Forms 1099 for interest, dividends, or retirement distributions, and Schedule K-1 forms if applicable.
Credit and deduction documentation: Include property tax payment records, receipts for charitable donations, and proof of taxes paid to other states.
Prior-year return: Keep a copy of your 2018 Connecticut tax return nearby for reference.
DRS correspondence: If you received any letter from the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, have it available, as it may contain information you must include.

If you cannot locate certain documents, do not guess figures. Instead, contact the appropriate employer, bank, or financial institution. For unavailable records, contact the Department of Revenue Services for guidance.

Step 2 – Complete Your Federal Return First

Connecticut’s tax calculation starts with your federal Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Complete your federal Form 1040 before working on your Connecticut return. This step ensures the figures you transfer are accurate and consistent. If the IRS issues a correction to your federal return, you must also respond by updating your Connecticut return.

Step 3 – Fill Out Form CT-1040

Form CT-1040 is indispensable for reporting your 2019 Connecticut income, deductions, credits, and tax owed.

Taxpayer information: Fill in your name, Social Security Number, address, and filing status exactly as they appear on federal documents.
Adjustments and schedules: If you have income modifications or credits, complete the necessary schedules and attach them to your return.
Payments and credits: Include state withholding from W-2s, estimated fees, extension payments, and credits for taxes paid to other states.

Step 4 – Calculate Refund or Amount Due

After entering all income, deductions, and credits, determine whether you owe additional tax or qualify for a refund:

Refund: If your total payments exceed your tax, receive the balance by direct deposit or apply it toward next year’s estimated tax.
Amount due: If your total tax exceeds your payments, pay the balance by the filing deadline to avoid interest and penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced customers can make errors that delay processing or lead to notices from the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services. Awareness of these pitfalls can save time, reduce stress, and help you file an accurate return.

Incorrect or missing Social Security Numbers: Always verify that your Social Security Number and, if applicable, your spouse’s number are entered correctly. Even a single-digit error can cause delays or require the DRS to send you a letter requesting clarification.
Unsigned returns: If you forget to sign and date your return, it is considered incomplete and will not be processed until corrected. This is one of the simplest mistakes to prevent, so you should carefully review your return before submission.
Incomplete forms or missing schedules: Ensure all required schedules are attached, especially if you claim deductions or credits such as the earned income tax credit or the property tax credit. Missing schedules can result in processing delays or the denial of claimed benefits.
Wrong tax year forms: Always confirm you are using 2019 forms when filing for that year. Using an incorrect form can lead to processing errors and require you to resubmit your return.
Mailing to the wrong address: If filing on paper, verify the correct mailing address based on whether you are including a payment. Mailing your return to the incorrect address can lead to longer processing times and possible penalties for late receipt.

How to File Your Connecticut Tax Return

Once your forms and documents are ready, you can choose between electronic and paper filing. Each option has its benefits, but electronic filing is generally faster and reduces the chance of errors.

Electronic Filing (myconneCT)

Connecticut’s myconneCT system is the preferred option for most taxpayers. This secure online platform allows you to file your 2019 return, make payments, and track your refund in one place.

Some of the benefits of using myconneCT are:

Immediate filing confirmation: As soon as you submit your return, the system confirms on-screen that it has been received. This reassurance allows you to track the process confidently without waiting for mailed acknowledgments.
Accurate calculations: Built-in tools automatically perform tax calculations, significantly reducing the chance of math errors that could delay your refund or require follow-up from the Department of Revenue Services.
Faster refunds with direct deposit: By entering your bank account details, you can deposit your refund directly, often in less time than waiting for a paper check.
Convenient record access: You can securely access prior-year returns, payment records, and notices, making it easier to review your tax history or prepare future filings.

Electronic filing through myconneCT is especially advantageous for taxpayers claiming the earned income tax credit. It streamlines the process, ensures all required schedules are submitted correctly, and can result in faster credit processing compared to paper returns.

Paper Filing

Paper filing remains an option for those who prefer to submit a physical return. When filing by mail:

Use blue or black ink and print clearly.
Do not staple forms or schedules.
Ensure that all pages of Form CT-1040 are included, even if some sections are blank.
Use the correct mailing address:
- With payment: Department of Revenue Services, PO Box 2977, Hartford, CT 06104-2977
- Without payment: Department of Revenue Services, PO Box 2976, Hartford, CT 06104-2976

While paper filing may work for some filers, it takes longer to process and increases the possibility of delays if incomplete documents are mailed to the wrong address.

How to Make a Payment

Paying any balance due on your 2019 Connecticut income tax is an essential final step in filing. The state offers several secure options to help you meet your obligation on time and avoid penalties or interest.

Online Payment Options

The myconneCT direct payment (ACH) service allows you to pay directly from your bank account when filing online. You can also schedule payments for a future date.
Credit or debit card: Payments made with a card are processed quickly, though third-party convenience fees apply.
Earned Income Tax Credit recipients: If you are eligible for the earned income tax credit and still owe a balance, paying online ensures the state receives your payment promptly while your credit is processed.

Traditional Payment Methods

Check or money order: Make payable to “Commissioner of Revenue Services” and include your name, Social Security Number, and “2019 Form CT-1040” on the memo line.
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): This is required for certain large taxpayers and businesses, but it’s also available to others seeking a secure transfer method.

Payment Deadlines and Avoiding Penalties

Pay your balance by the original April deadline to avoid interest and late payment penalties, even if you received a filing extension. The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services applies daily interest to unpaid balances, so paying promptly can save money and prevent collection actions.

How to Track Your Refund or Balance Due

Knowing the status of your refund or the amount you still owe is an integral part of managing your 2019 Connecticut tax return. The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services provides online and phone options to simplify and secure this process

Using myconneCT—An Indispensable Tool for Tracking

The myconneCT system is indispensable for monitoring your refund or outstanding balance. Once you log in, you can:

Verify the current status of your refund.
See whether your payment has been processed.
Review your payment history and any correspondence from the DRS.

To get started, visit the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services’ online portal and select the “Where’s My Refund?” or “Check My Balance” option.

Refund Status Tracking for Earned Income Tax Credit Filers

If you claimed the earned income tax credit, your refund may take additional time to process due to verification requirements. You can check your status through myconneCT or the DRS automated phone system. To ensure rapid results, have your Social Security Number, filing status, and exact refund amount ready.

Checking and Paying a Balance Due

If you owe additional taxes, myconneCT lets you view your balance in real time and make payments directly from your account. You can also set up payment plans if you cannot pay in full, helping you avoid further penalties and interest.

Final Filing Checklist

Completing your 2019 Connecticut tax return is only part of the process; the final step is to confirm that everything is accurate, complete, and ready for submission. This checklist will assist you in preventing processing delays, guaranteeing the inclusion of all necessary schedules, and safeguarding your eligibility for deductions and credits.

Required Documents and Forms

Completed Form CT-1040: Verify that all pages are filled out, even if some sections are blank. Attach any applicable schedules.
Income statements: Include all Forms W-2 from your employer and Forms 1099 or Schedule K-1 for additional income sources such as investments, retirement distributions, or partnership earnings.
Federal return copy: Keep a completed copy of your federal return nearby, as figures from your federal AGI flow directly into your Connecticut return.

Schedules and Credits

Schedule 1 – Modifications to Federal AGI: This includes adjusting military retirement pay exclusions and pension deductions.
Schedule 2—Credit for Income Taxes Paid to Other States: This credit prevents double taxation for individuals outside of Connecticut.
Schedule 3 – Property Tax Credit: For eligible homeowners and renters who meet the age or dependent requirements.
Schedule CT-EITC – Earned Income Tax Credit: To claim a percentage of your federal credit, reduce the taxes you owe, or increase your refund.
Schedule CT-PE – Pass-Through Entity Tax Credit: This schedule is for eligible members of pass-through entities applying for credit for entity-level taxes paid.

Payment and Refund Information

If you owe taxes: Select your payment method—myconneCT direct payment, credit/debit card, or check—and make sure funds will be available by the deadline.
If you expect a refund: Double-check that your bank account details for direct deposit are correct to prevent delays.
Mailing address verification: If you choose paper filing, confirm using the correct address for returns with or without payment.

Final Review Steps

Confirm that all Social Security Numbers are entered correctly.
Sign and date your return; unsigned returns are considered incomplete and will not be processed.
Keep copies of all submitted forms, schedules, and supporting documents for at least three years for your records.
Before submitting your return, visit the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services website for official instructions, downloadable forms, and online filing options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if I missed the filing deadline for my 2019 Connecticut tax return?

If you missed the April 15, 2020, deadline (or the July 15, 2020, COVID-19 extension), file as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest. The failure-to-file penalty is 10% of unpaid taxes, plus interest. If you are due a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late, but you have three years from the original deadline to claim it.

Can I e-file my return from Connecticut for free?

Connecticut offers most taxpayers free electronic filing through myconneCT. E-filing is secure, processes faster than paper returns, and reduces math errors with automatic calculations. You can also choose direct deposit for quicker refunds. Before starting, gather your tax forms and documentation. Visit the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services website to confirm your eligibility and access the e-filing portal.

What deductions do Connecticut taxpayers typically overlook?

Commonly overlooked deductions and credits include the property tax credit, the Connecticut earned income tax credit, military retirement pay exclusions, and pension or annuity income modifications. Many taxpayers also forget to report and pay use tax on out-of-state purchases. Reviewing your eligibility for these benefits before filing can help reduce your overall tax liability or increase your refund. Always include required schedules to support your claims.

Can I file jointly if I moved to or from Connecticut mid-year?

Yes, but you must file using Form CT-1040NR/PY as a part-year resident. This form allows you to report only the income earned during your Connecticut residency and claim credits for taxes paid to other states. If married, you can still file jointly on your federal return, but the Connecticut return must reflect your residency dates and income allocation.

What should I do if I discover an error after filing?

If you find a mistake after filing, submit Form CT-1040X, Amended Connecticut Income Tax Return. You have three years from the original due date to file an amendment. Reasons for amending include additional tax documents, calculation errors, or federal return changes that affect your Connecticut return. Attach any necessary schedules or documentation, and file electronically or by mail to ensure accurate processing.

How long should I keep my Connecticut tax return records?

Keep copies of your Connecticut tax returns, schedules, and supporting documents from the filing deadline for at least three years. This is the period during which the Department of Revenue Services may audit your return or assess additional taxes. Retain six-year records if you underreported income by more than 25%. Storing your documents securely can also help you prepare future returns more efficiently.