How to File Kansas State Tax Return for Tax Year 2014

Filing a Kansas state tax return for the 2014 tax year may feel overwhelming, especially if it was your first time handling your taxes. This guide explains the step-by-step process so you can confidently prepare, avoid common mistakes, and determine whether you owe money or qualify for a refund. It is designed to be helpful, reassuring, and simple enough for readers unfamiliar with tax filing.

The Kansas Department of Revenue requires most residents, part-year residents, and nonresidents with Kansas income to complete Form K-40. By gathering the right forms from your employer, reviewing any notices from the IRS, and following the correct filing date, you can reduce hassle and improve accuracy. Using the official WebFile system or paper filing, you can pay what you owe or receive your refund directly to your account.

This article provides guidance on deductions, payment options, and how to track your return. Whether you are filing late after several years, seeking to maximize your refund, or just need expert help with questions, the steps here are structured to save you time and provide clear direction.

Who Must File a 2014 Kansas State Tax Return

Not everyone is required to file a Kansas state tax return for the 2014 tax year. Filing requirements depend on your residency status, income level, and whether you had Kansas taxes withheld by an employer or other financial institution. If you qualify, filing ensures accuracy, prevents problems with future notices, and allows you to claim any refund you are owed.

Kansas residents

If you lived in Kansas for all of 2014, you must file if:

You were required to file a federal tax return.
Your Kansas adjusted gross income exceeded your standard deduction plus exemption allowance.
You had Kansas income tax withheld and want to claim a refund, even if your income was below the filing threshold.

Part-year residents

If you lived in Kansas for part of 2014, you must file if:

You had income from Kansas sources during the months you were a resident.
You want to pay taxes owed or claim a refund for the portion of the year you lived in Kansas.

Nonresidents

You must file if you lived outside of Kansas but earned Kansas income in 2014. Even if the amount seems small, the process still requires reporting so the Department of Revenue can determine whether you owe tax or are due a refund.

Income thresholds

Kansas requires a return if your income was above certain levels. The threshold depends on filing status and age. For example:

Single filers under 65 must file if their income was at least $5,250.
Married couples filing jointly must file if their income reaches $12,000.
Head of household filers under 65 must file if their income was at least $10,000.

To meet these deadlines, you must complete and sign the form before the due date to avoid penalties. Filing also ensures you receive any refund directly.

Kansas Tax Rates, Deductions, and Exemptions for 2014

Understanding how Kansas calculated income tax in 2014 is important for accurate tax filing. The state used a two-bracket system, which applied different percentages depending on your income level and filing status.

Income up to $15,000 for single filers, or $30,000 for married couples filing jointly, was taxed at a rate of 2.7 percent. This meant lower-income households paid a smaller portion of their income in taxes.
Income above those thresholds was taxed at a rate of 4.6 percent. This higher rate applied only to income above the cutoff amounts.

Standard deductions

A single filer in 2014 could claim a standard deduction of $3,000 to reduce taxable income.
Married couples filing jointly could claim a standard deduction of $6,000.
Heads of household could claim a standard deduction of $4,500.
Married individuals filing separately could claim a standard deduction of $3,000 each.

Exemptions

Each taxpayer was allowed to claim a $2,250 exemption for themselves.
An additional $2,250 exemption was available for each dependent, which helped reduce taxable income further.

Key changes from 2013

Kansas did not introduce significant changes between 2013 and 2014. Tax rates, deduction amounts, and exemption allowances remained the same, making the filing process consistent and easier to review for accuracy.

Kansas 2014 Tax Forms You Need

Having the correct tax forms is essential before you begin preparing your taxes. Using the wrong forms may lead to mistakes, cause delays, or prevent you from receiving a refund on time.

Primary form

Form K-40 is the Kansas Individual Income Tax Return. This is the main form required for all residents, part-year residents, and nonresidents with Kansas income in 2014.

Supporting forms

Form K-40V is the payment voucher. You must include this form if you choose to pay your tax balance by check or money order.
Schedule S is the form for itemized deductions. You will use this form if you decide not to take the standard deduction and instead list your qualifying expenses, such as mortgage interest or charitable donations.
Publication IP-14 contains the official instructions for completing the 2014 Kansas return. This document provides step-by-step guidance for filling out forms correctly.

All forms should be official copies provided by the Kansas Department of Revenue or generated by approved tax software. Photocopies and altered versions are not accepted and may result in rejected returns.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form K-40

Filing a Kansas state tax return becomes much simpler when you follow a structured process. The steps below explain how to prepare, complete, and review K-40 to avoid common mistakes and improve accuracy.

Step 1: Gather documents

Collect all W-2 forms from your employer and any 1099 forms that report additional income, such as freelance work, interest, or dividends.
Include a copy of your federal income tax return, which you will need to transfer your adjusted gross income.
Please have the Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents ready, as well as your bank account details, if you want to receive your refund through direct deposit.

Step 2: Enter personal information

Your full legal name, mailing address, and Social Security number exactly as you appear on your federal return.
Make sure your Kansas filing status matches your federal filing status. You cannot choose a different status for state purposes.

Step 3: Report income and adjustments

Transfer your federal adjusted gross income to the Kansas form. This number comes directly from your federal return.
Apply Kansas-specific adjustments, such as subtracting military pay that qualifies for exclusion or adding back deductions not recognized by the state.

Step 4: Claim deductions

Choose whether to use the standard deduction or to itemize your expenses using Schedule S.
Compare both options carefully to determine which approach results in a lower taxable income and may increase your refund.

Step 5: Calculate tax and credits

Subtract your deductions and exemptions from your adjusted income to determine taxable income.
Use the tax tables in Publication IP-14 to find the correct tax amount for your income level.
To reduce the total tax owed, apply any eligible credits, such as the child and dependent care credit.

Step 6: Record payments and balance due

Add up Kansas income tax withheld by your employer and any estimated tax or extension payments you made during the year.
Compare the total payments to your calculated tax liability to determine whether you will receive a refund or owe additional money.

Common mistakes to avoid

Some taxpayers choose the wrong filing status, affecting their taxable income and refund.
Errors often occur when entering Social Security numbers for dependents, so double-check all entries.
Forgetting to sign the return will cause it to be considered incomplete and delay processing.
Many mistakes result from math errors or overlooked deductions, so it is helpful to review your return carefully before mailing or submitting it electronically.

Completing each step thoroughly helps ensure accuracy, reduces the risk of receiving a notice, and allows you to receive your refund more quickly.

How to File Your 2014 Kansas Tax Return

Once you complete Form K-40, you must choose how to submit your return. Kansas offers both electronic and paper filing options. Selecting the right method depends on your situation, your comfort level with tax software, and how quickly you want to receive your refund.

Electronic filing through Kansas WebFile

Kansas WebFile is the official online filing system provided by the Kansas Department of Revenue. It is free to use and available directly through the state’s website.
Electronic filing typically results in faster processing, with refunds sent by direct deposit in about 7 to 10 business days. Paper returns can take 6 to 8 weeks.
The system provides built-in error checking, which can reduce mistakes and improve the accuracy of your return.
You will receive immediate confirmation when the Department of Revenue accepts your filing, reassuring you that your return has been received.
WebFile is generally best for taxpayers with straightforward returns who want a simple process and a quick refund.

Paper filing by mail

Some taxpayers prefer paper filing, especially if they are uncomfortable using an online device or have a more complex tax situation.
To file by mail, you must send your signed Form K-40 and all required schedules to the official Kansas Department of Revenue mailing address.
You must also include a copy of your federal return if you are filing from outside Kansas or if specifically instructed by the form instructions.
If you owe tax and are paying by check or money order, you must include Form K-40V with your payment.
You should use certified mail or another trackable service to confirm that your return was delivered.

Filing deadlines and extensions

The deadline for filing your 2014 Kansas state tax return was April 15, 2015. If April 15 fell on a weekend or holiday, the due date moved to the next business day.
Kansas automatically granted extensions to taxpayers who filed federal Form 4868. You must attach a copy to your Kansas return if you received a federal extension.
An extension gave you extra time to file paperwork, but did not extend the deadline to pay taxes owed. Payments were still due by the original April date.
Filing after the due date without an extension could result in penalties and interest, so it was important to determine your situation early and pay on time.

How to Make a Payment

If you owe money on your 2014 Kansas state tax return, the Department of Revenue offers several ways to pay. Choosing the right method can help you avoid penalties, ensure accuracy, and complete the process without hassle.

Paying electronically

You can pay directly from your bank account through the Kansas Department of Revenue website. This option is free and available whether you file your return online through WebFile or mail it in paper form.
Electronic payments can be scheduled in advance, which allows you to set the date for your payment to be withdrawn on or before the deadline.
Paying online is often the most efficient choice because it is processed quickly and provides a confirmation for your records.

Paying by check or money order

If you prefer not to pay online, you can mail a check or money order made payable to the Kansas Department of Revenue.
You must include Form K-40V and the payment voucher with your check or money order. This form ensures that your payment is applied to the correct account.
Please write your Social Security number on the check or money order to avoid any delays in processing.
You should never send cash through the mail, as it cannot be tracked and may cause problems if lost.

Deadlines and penalties

Payments were due by April 15, 2015, even if you received a filing extension. An extension only gave you more time to file your return, not more time to pay.
Late payments are subject to interest charges; additional penalty fees may apply if you fail to pay on time.
To avoid added costs, reviewing your return early and determining if you owe money so you can pay before the deadline is helpful.

Installment payment plans

Kansas allowed taxpayers to request an installment payment plan if they could not pay the full amount owed in 2014,
To set up a plan, you must file your return first and then contact the Department of Revenue to make arrangements.
While this option helped spread out payments, interest and some penalties still applied until the balance was fully paid.

Tracking Refunds or Balances Due

After you file your Kansas state tax return for 2014, you may want to check the status of your refund or confirm whether you still owe money. The Kansas Department of Revenue provides tools and contact options to make this process easier.

Using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool

Kansas offers an online refund status tool on the Department of Revenue website, often called “Where’s My Refund?”.
To use the tool, you must enter your Social Security number, your filing status, and the exact dollar amount of your expected refund.
The system is updated regularly during filing season, so you can check progress without directly calling a tax expert or the state.

Refund processing timelines

Refunds from electronic filings are usually deposited into your account within 7 to 10 business days after the return is accepted.
If you requested a paper check through electronic filing, you will generally receive your refund by mail in 2 to 3 weeks.
Refunds from paper returns take longer, typically 6 to 8 weeks, and may require additional time if the Department of Revenue needs to review your return for accuracy.

Tracking a balance due

If you owe money instead of receiving a refund, you can confirm your balance by reviewing your filed return and comparing it to your payment records.
The Department of Revenue can also provide updated account information if you contact them directly.
Paying any remaining balance quickly is important to avoid interest charges or additional penalties.

Contact information for assistance

The Kansas Department of Revenue offers phone and email help if you have questions about your return, refund, or balance due.
Taxpayers can call 785-368-8222 during business hours or email kdor_tac@ks.gov for assistance.
Having your Social Security number, filing status, and return details ready before you call can save time and make the process smoother.

Final Filing Checklist Before Submission

Before you mail or electronically submit your Kansas state tax return for 2014, it is helpful to review a final checklist. Taking a few extra minutes to confirm details can prevent mistakes, reduce hassle, and ensure your return is processed accurately.

Required actions

Make sure you have signed and dated your return. Both spouses must sign to acknowledge the correct information if you are filing jointly.
Attach all W-2s, 1099s, and other income forms provided by your employer or financial institution to support the income reported.
Verify that your mailing address is current so the Kansas Department of Revenue can send notices or your refund without delay.
Include your bank account and routing numbers if you want to receive your refund by direct deposit.
Attach a copy of your federal tax return if required, especially if you are filing outside Kansas.
Include Form K-40V if you are paying by check or money order to ensure your payment is applied correctly.
Keep copies of all forms and schedules for your records for at least three years.

Double-check important details

Review every Social Security number on your return to confirm accuracy, as incorrect numbers can cause rejection.
Check all math calculations, including deductions and credits, to make sure totals are correct.
Confirm that your filing status matches your federal return, since Kansas requires consistency between state and federal filings.
Ensure you use 2014 forms only, as older or newer versions will not be accepted.
Use original forms or approved software-generated versions, since photocopies may not be processed.

Before mailing or submitting electronically

If you are mailing a paper return, ensure the envelope has proper postage and is addressed to the Kansas Department of Revenue.
Consider using certified mail or another trackable option to confirm delivery.
Verify that you are submitting by the deadline to avoid late filing penalties.
Double-check that your payment is enclosed or scheduled to avoid additional interest or fees if you owe money.
Ensure your phone number and contact information are correct so the Department of Revenue can reach you with questions.

Completing this checklist helps you prepare a complete and accurate return, reduces the chance of mistakes, and reassures you that your filing will be accepted without unnecessary delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you file a Kansas tax return for 2014?

To file a Kansas state tax return for 2014, you must complete Form K-40 using either the state’s free WebFile system or paper filing. Gather forms from your employer, review your federal IRS return, and prepare supporting documents like deductions or payment vouchers. Double-check accuracy, sign your return, and submit by the correct date. Filing electronically is simple and allows you to receive a refund directly to your account.

What if I missed the 2014 Kansas tax filing date?

If you did not file by April 15, 2015, you can still complete your 2014 return, but penalties and interest may apply if you owe money. Filing late is necessary to claim a refund since Kansas allows claims up to several years after the original deadline. Review your return carefully, sign it, and contact the Department of Revenue if you need guidance.

How do I know if I must file my own taxes in Kansas?

You must file a Kansas tax return if your income exceeded state thresholds, if an employer or financial institution withheld taxes, or if you want to claim a refund. Even if your IRS return shows no balance owed, filing at the state level ensures accuracy and prevents future notices. Expert help or tax software can be helpful if you are filing for the first time.

What deductions were available on the 2014 Kansas return?

For 2014, Kansas allowed standard deductions depending on filing status, or you could itemize deductions using Schedule S. These deductions reduced taxable income and could help you receive a maximum refund. Reviewing both options was important to determine which saved more money. Taxpayers were required to prepare the form completely, sign it, and ensure accuracy before submission. Taking the time to compare options was often helpful for accuracy.

How can I pay if I owe Kansas state taxes for 2014?

If you owe taxes for 2014, you can pay directly through the Kansas Department of Revenue’s website or by mailing a check or money order with Form K-40V. Paying electronically is often free and avoids hassle, while mailing requires more time. Be sure to include your account details for accuracy. If paying by mail, sign your return, include all forms, and consider using certified delivery for reassurance.

What should I do if I made a mistake on my 2014 Kansas tax return?

If you discover a mistake on your return, you should file an amended Kansas Form K-40 for 2014. The process allows you to correct deductions, income, or filing status errors. You must acknowledge changes, sign and date the amended return, and include supporting forms. It is helpful to have the amended return reviewed by tax experts or prepared with updated software to ensure accuracy and avoid future problems.

How do I track a Kansas 2014 refund?

Use the Department of Revenue’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track a Kansas refund. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the refund amount on your return. Refunds are typically deposited directly into your account if you filed electronically, which saves time compared to paper checks. If your refund takes longer than expected, contact the Department of Revenue for guidance and to resolve any problems quickly.