How to File Your Arizona State Tax Return 2013: Step-by-Step Guide for Residents

Filing an Arizona tax return for 2013 may seem overwhelming, but the process is more straightforward once you understand the forms, income rules, and deadlines. Whether you are filing as a resident for the first time or catching up on a prior year's return, this guide walks you through each step clearly so you can file confidently.

The Arizona Department of Revenue uses your federal AGI as the starting point for calculating taxable income. You must also include details such as your social security number or individual taxpayer identification number and information on retirement income, military pay, and other earnings. Knowing which exemptions, deductions, and credits you are eligible to claim is key to reducing the amount you may owe or increasing the refund you receive.

This step-by-step guide explains how to complete your return, submit payments if required, and track your refund through official government resources. It also covers what to do if you miss the due date, how to request an extension, and how to respond to penalties or balance notices. Individuals can proceed smoothly and avoid common filing mistakes with clear instructions, simple checklists, and practical examples.

Overview of Arizona State Tax Return for 2013

Filing a state tax return in Arizona depends on income thresholds, residency status, and whether any Arizona income tax was withheld. Individuals must review their prior year return and current year income before deciding if filing is required. Even if your income is below the threshold, you should file to claim a refund for money already paid through withholding or estimated payments.

Who Must File

You are required to file if your Arizona adjusted gross income (AGI) or gross income meets certain minimum levels:

Single filers: Arizona AGI of at least $5,500 or gross income of at least $15,000
Married filing jointly: Arizona AGI of at least $11,000 or gross income of at least $15,000
Married filing separately: Arizona AGI of at least $5,500 or gross income of at least $15,000
Head of household: Arizona AGI of at least $5,500 or gross income of at least $15,000

If any Arizona income tax was withheld from wages, you should still file to claim a refund, even if your income does not reach these thresholds.

Income That Counts Toward Filing

Arizona uses your federal AGI as a starting point for calculating taxable income, but some additions and subtractions change your state filing requirements. Familiar income sources include wages, business, investment, and interest. Some types of income are excluded, such as:

Social Security retirement income
Military pay for active duty, reservists, and National Guard members
Railroad Retirement Act benefits
Interest earned from U.S. government obligations

Key Changes for 2013

The 2013 Arizona return kept most filing rules the same as 2012, but standard deduction and exemption amounts were adjusted.

Standard deduction: $4,945 for single or married filing separately; $9,883 for married filing jointly or head of household
Personal exemptions: $2,100 for single filers, $4,200 for married filing jointly without dependents, $6,300 for married filing jointly with dependents, and $4,200 for head of household filers

These amounts should be used when calculating your tax liability or claiming exemptions. They directly affect whether you owe money, are subject to underpayment penalties, or are eligible for a refund.

Choosing the Correct Arizona Tax Form

Arizona provides several different tax return forms for 2013. The form you use depends on your taxable income, filing status, and whether you plan to claim certain credits or deductions. Using the wrong form can delay your refund, cause errors in your return, or result in penalties.

Form 140EZ

Form 140EZ is the simplest option and is only available for individuals with straightforward tax situations. You can use this form if:

You are single or married filing jointly, and both spouses are under 65 and not blind.
You do not have dependents or parent and grandparent exemptions.
Your Arizona taxable income is under $50,000.
You only claim the family income tax credit or the increased excise tax credit.
You are not making estimated payments or reporting additions and subtractions to income.

Form 140A

Form 140A is slightly more flexible and can be used if you are a full-year Arizona resident. You may use this form when:

Your Arizona taxable income is under $50,000.
You are not reporting income adjustments or itemized deductions.
You are only claiming the family income tax credit, the property tax credit, or the increased excise tax credit.
You are not making estimated payments.

Form 140

Form 140 is the standard form for individuals with more complex filing situations. You must use this form if:

Your Arizona taxable income is $50,000 or more.
You are making additions or subtractions to income.
You plan to itemize deductions instead of using the standard deduction.
You are claiming additional credits beyond the basic credits available on shorter forms.
You made estimated payments during the year.
You are claiming a subtraction for military pay.

Additional Forms

Form 140PY is used if you were a part-year resident of Arizona in 2013. It ensures that the state taxes only the income earned while a resident.
Form 140X is used to file an amended return. You must complete this form to correct your filing if you discover mistakes or need to report additional income.

Where to Find the Forms

All Arizona state tax forms are available through the Arizona Department of Revenue website. You can file electronically or request a paper form by mail. Always confirm that the forms you use are the most recent versions, and check the date they were last reviewed or updated on the instructions provided.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Filing

Filing your Arizona tax return for 2013 requires preparation, accurate reporting of income, and careful completion of each section of the form. These steps will help you avoid errors, reduce penalties, and ensure your return is processed smoothly.

Step 1: Prepare Before You File

Complete your federal tax return first. Arizona begins with your federal AGI to calculate taxable income.
Gather all required documents before starting your state return. These may include:
- W-2 forms showing wages and Arizona tax withheld
- 1099 forms for interest, dividends, or retirement income
- A copy of your prior year return for reference
- Social Security numbers or individual taxpayer identification numbers for all individuals listed on the return
- Bank account information, if you want your refund through direct deposit
Use black ink and round all figures to the nearest whole dollar if you file by mail.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Filing Status

Your filing status in Arizona usually matches your federal status. Options include single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, or head of household.
Choosing the correct status is crucial because it affects your exemptions, credits, and overall tax liability.

Step 3: Enter Personal Information

Write your name exactly as it appears on your Social Security card.
Provide your mailing address, Social Security number, or ITIN.
Include a daytime phone number if the Arizona Department of Revenue needs to contact you.

Step 4: Calculate Exemptions

Enter the standard exemption amount based on your filing status.
Add exemptions for dependents, individuals age 65 or older, and those who are blind.
If you claim parent or grandparent exemptions, ensure all eligibility rules are met.

Step 5: Report Income and Adjustments

Transfer your federal AGI to the Arizona form.
Add income not taxed federally but taxable in Arizona, such as municipal bond interest from other states.
Subtract income that Arizona excludes, such as Social Security retirement income, qualifying military pay, or interest on U.S. government obligations.
Review all additions and subtractions carefully to ensure your taxable income is correct.

Step 6: Select Deductions and Apply Credits

Decide whether to claim the standard deduction or itemize expenses. For many individuals, the standard deduction provides a simpler and effective choice.
Apply eligible credits, such as:
- Family income tax credit
- Property tax credit
- Increased excise tax credit
Be sure to complete all required schedules if you are claiming multiple credits.

Step 7: Calculate Your Arizona Tax

Use the tax tables provided with the form instructions to determine your liability.
Check your math carefully. Mistakes here are a common reason returns are delayed.
Compare the amount owed to the payments you have already made through withholding or estimated payments.

Step 8: Finalize the Return

Review the return to confirm all required fields are complete.
Make sure all Social Security numbers and ITINs are accurate.
If you owe a balance, prepare your payment by check, money order, or an electronic method.
If you are due a refund, double-check that your bank account information for direct deposit is correct.
Sign and date the return. Both spouses must sign if filing jointly.

Step 9: Attach and Mail if Filing on Paper

Attach all W-2s and 1099s to the front of your return.
Include payment, if required, and write your SSN and the tax year on the check.
Mail to the appropriate Arizona Department of Revenue address based on whether you owe tax or expect a refund.

How to File Your Arizona Tax Return

Arizona offers multiple ways to file your 2013 tax return, and the option you choose affects how quickly your refund is received and how easily errors are corrected. Most individuals find electronic filing more convenient, but paper filing is still available for those who prefer it.

Electronic Filing

Electronic filing, also known as e-file, provides several advantages:

Faster refunds are usually available within two to three weeks.
Automatic error checking reduces the chance of mistakes.
Immediate confirmation that the Arizona Department of Revenue received your return.
Direct deposit into your bank account if you are due a refund.
Secure transmission of personal and financial information.

E-filing can be done through the AZTaxes.gov e-file or approved tax preparation software. This method is recommended to minimize processing delays.

Paper Filing

Paper filing is an option for those who prefer to mail their return. If you use this method, be sure to:

Use the correct address based on whether you are submitting a payment or expecting a refund.
Sign and date the return, and attach all required W-2s and 1099s.
Write your Social Security number or ITIN on any checks included for payment.
Allow six to eight weeks for processing, as paper returns take longer to review and verify.

The form instructions list mailing addresses, and you should confirm that you are using the most recent address provided by the state.

Deadlines and Extensions

The due date for filing your 2013 Arizona return was April 15, 2014. If you could not file by then, you can request an extension by filing Arizona Form 204 or using the federal extension Form 4868, which Arizona accepts. An extension only applies to filing paperwork; it does not extend the time to pay. To avoid underpayment penalties, at least 90 percent of the tax owed had to be paid by the original due date.

Payment Options for Arizona State Taxes

The state provided several payment methods if you owed a balance on your 2013 Arizona tax return. The right method depends on whether you prefer electronic payments or traditional paper options. Paying on time helps you avoid penalties and interest charges.

Electronic Payment Methods

Electronic payment is the fastest and most secure way to settle your balance. Options included:

Electronic check (E-check): This method allows you to authorize a withdrawal directly from your bank account. It is free and posts quickly.
Credit card payments: These could be made through approved processors, though convenience fees are applied.
Online payment via AZTaxes.gov: This system lets you pay taxes, review account information, and confirm payments received.

Traditional Payment Methods

For individuals who prefer not to pay online, traditional methods were also available:

Personal check: Make checks payable to the Arizona Department of Revenue. Always write your Social Security number and the tax year on the memo line.
Money order or cashier’s check: These are acceptable alternatives if you do not wish to use a personal check.
Mail submission: Attach your payment securely to the front of the return if filing on paper.

Installment Payment Agreements

Arizona allowed eligible individuals to request an installment agreement if they could not pay the due amount. To qualify, you had to:

File your return on time, even if you cannot pay the full balance.
Contact the Arizona Department of Revenue to set up a payment plan.
Agree to make monthly payments while interest and penalties continued to accrue.

Requesting an installment agreement allowed you to proceed with filing without delay and reduced the risk of enforced collection actions.

Tracking Your Arizona Tax Refund or Balance Due

After you file your 2013 Arizona tax return, you may want to check the status of your refund or confirm whether a balance remains unpaid. Arizona provides online tools, phone support, and mail confirmations to help individuals track payments and refunds.

Using the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool

Taxpayers could check their refund status by visiting AZTaxes.gov and selecting the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
To use this service, taxpayers must provide their social security number, filing status, five-digit ZIP code, and the tax year.
The tool showed whether the return was still being processed, had been approved, or if additional action from the taxpayer was required.

Processing Times

Electronic returns: Refunds are typically processed in two to three weeks. Direct deposit is faster than receiving a paper check.
Paper returns: Processing usually takes six to eight weeks, and additional delays may occur if corrections are required.
Balance due: If you submitted a payment, you can check that it was received by reviewing your account through AZTaxes.gov.

Contacting the Arizona Department of Revenue

If you do not receive your refund within the expected timeframe or if you have questions about a balance, you can call:

Phoenix area: (602) 255-3381
Outside Phoenix (area codes 520 and 928): (800) 352-4090

Representatives are available during business hours, and calling during early mornings or late afternoons may reduce wait times.

Final Filing Checklist

Review the following checklist before mailing or submitting your 2013 Arizona tax return to ensure your filing is complete. This step helps avoid delays, rejections, or penalties.

Required Signatures and Attachments

The return is signed and dated. Both spouses must sign if filing jointly.
All W-2s, 1099s, and other income documents are attached after the last page of the return.
Your Social Security number or ITIN and any payments are included on the form.

Payment and Banking Information

If taxes are owed, payment is attached. Checks include your SSN and the year “2013” on the memo line.
Bank account information for direct deposit is accurate if you expect a refund.
Payments are securely attached to the return if filing by mail.

Record Keeping and Review

Copies of the entire return, including attachments, are made for your records.
All supporting documents are stored safely for at least four years.
Calculations have been double-checked, and required schedules are included.

Completing this checklist before submission ensures that your return is processed efficiently, refunds are not delayed, and payments are credited correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you file your Arizona tax return for 2013?

To file the Arizona tax return for 2013, taxpayers must first complete their federal income tax return and then transfer that information onto the correct state forms. Instructions guided filers through reporting income, applying exemptions, and claiming credit. The process could be completed electronically for faster results or by mail using the correct mailing address. Filing by the due date was essential to avoid penalties on taxes owed.

How do I check my refund status for a 2013 Arizona return?

You can check your refund status through the Arizona Department of Revenue’s online service at AZTaxes.gov. To access your exact refund information, you must provide your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount. If extra review is required, processing may take longer. Refunds from e-filed returns were usually issued in two to three weeks, while paper returns could take up to eight weeks or more.

What if the filing deadline fell on a legal holiday?

If the filing date for your 2013 Arizona income tax return landed on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the deadline was automatically extended. In that case, you could file and pay without penalty on the next business day. This rule helped taxpayers avoid late filing charges when the regular due date was not a standard business day. Always review the filing instructions to confirm deadlines.

What happens if my return needs extra review?

When the Arizona Department of Revenue selects a tax return for extra review, additional verification is required before issuing a refund. This process may involve checking forms, confirming Social Security numbers, or reviewing payment records. Taxpayers may be asked to provide documentation or respond to information requests. While it may delay the refund, the review ensures that credits, payments, and exemptions are accurate and valid.

Where do I find the mailing address for my 2013 Arizona return?

The mailing address depended on whether you expected a refund or included a payment. Returns showing a refund were mailed to one address, while returns with taxes due and payment were sent to a different one. Mailing instructions were provided on the official form instructions' last reviewed or updated page. Always double-check the correct mailing address before you mail your return to prevent delays.

What if I made a mistake on my income tax return?

If you discover an error after you file your income tax return, you can correct it by submitting Arizona Form 140X. This amended return allows taxpayers to fix incorrect Social Security numbers, miscalculated credits, or missed deductions. Be sure to include the correct forms, schedules, and instructions. The amended process ensures that payments, refund adjustments, and other corrections are properly applied to your tax account.

How do I qualify for a refund or credit on my 2013 Arizona return?

To qualify for a refund or credit, taxpayers must either overpay their taxes through withholding or be eligible for one of Arizona’s credits, such as the family income tax credit. You can request direct deposit by providing your banking details or receive a paper check by mail. You will not receive a refund if you paid less than required, but you may still claim eligible credits.