How to File Your Mississippi Tax Return for 2023: Step-by-Step Guide for Individuals and Small Businesses

Filing your Mississippi tax return for 2023 may seem overwhelming, especially if this is your first time handling your taxes. This guide offers clear guidance for individuals, part-year residents, non-residents, and small business owners so you can confidently complete the process. Following each step can avoid common mistakes, meet important dates, and ensure accurate returns.

The 2023 tax year brings key changes for Mississippi taxpayers, including a simplified rate structure under House Bill 531. Understanding the forms you need, your filing options, and how to calculate deductions will help you determine whether you owe money or are due a refund. Whether you file online through a device at home or work with tax experts at a financial institution, knowing your responsibilities early can save you time and hassle.

This article breaks the process into manageable steps, from gathering documents to signing and sending your return. You’ll learn to access forms, choose the right filing method, and track your refund. With helpful tips and reassuring explanations, you can file with confidence, get the max refund you’re entitled to, and know when to seek expert help for more complex situations.

Overview of Mississippi State Income Tax for 2023

Mississippi’s income tax system for 2023 has been simplified, making it easier for residents, part-year residents, and non-residents to understand their filing obligations. This section explains who must file, the new tax rates, and the important dates you must remember. Knowing these details helps ensure your tax return is complete and accurate.

Who Needs to File a Mississippi Tax Return

You must file an income tax return in Mississippi for 2023 if any of the following apply:

Mississippi income tax was withheld from your wages, excluding gambling winnings.
You are a non-resident or part-year resident with Mississippi-sourced income.
You are a single resident with a gross income above $8,300 plus $1,500 for each dependent.
You are married and your combined gross income exceeds $16,600 plus $1,500 for each dependent.
You are a Mississippi resident working outside the state, regardless of where the income was earned.
You are a minor resident whose gross income exceeds the personal exemption plus the standard deduction.

2023 Mississippi Tax Rates and Key Changes

House Bill 531 restructured the state’s tax rates for 2023:

No tax applies to the first $10,000 of taxable income.
A flat 4.7% tax applies to taxable income over $10,000.

This change removes the previous graduated brackets, simplifying the process and potentially reducing the amount some individuals owe.

Important Deadlines for the 2023 Tax Year

Mark these key dates to avoid late filing penalties or interest charges:

Filing deadline: April 15, 2024, for 2023 tax returns.
Payment due date: April 15, 2024, even if you request a filing extension.
Extension deadline: October 15, 2024, if you file for an extension.
Mississippi automatically honors a federal extension, but you must attach a copy of your federal Form 4868 to your state return.

By understanding these requirements, you can determine your filing status, prepare the correct forms, and choose the most efficient filing options to manage your taxes effectively.

Mississippi Tax Forms You’ll Need

If you have the right forms before you start your Mississippi tax return, you will save time and make fewer mistakes. Make sure you have the right forms for your filing situation, whether you live there full-time or part-time.

Main Individual Income Tax Forms

Form 80-105 is the return used by individuals who were Mississippi residents for the entire year. You will complete this form to report all income earned during the tax year.
Form 80-205 is for non-residents and part-year residents who earned income in Mississippi. It ensures you report only the income subject to Mississippi tax.

Supporting Forms and Schedules

Form 80-100 contains the official instructions for completing your state income tax return and should be reviewed before you begin.
Form 80-106 is the payment voucher you must include if you pay your taxes by check, money order, or through a financial institution.
Form 80-107 is the income and withholding schedule you use to report Mississippi taxes withheld by your employer or other payers.
Form 80-108 is the schedule to report itemized deductions if you are not claiming the standard deduction.

Common Credit Forms

Form 80-160 allows you to claim credit for income tax paid to another state, preventing you from paying taxes twice on the same income.
Form 80-401 is the summary schedule for reporting multiple Mississippi tax credits, ensuring they are applied correctly to your return.

Where to Find Forms

All Mississippi income tax forms are available on the Mississippi Department of Revenue website. You can download them for free, complete them by hand or electronically, and then either mail them or use approved e-filing options.

Step-by-Step Instructions to File Your Mississippi Tax Return

Filing your tax return is easier when you follow a clear process. The steps below guide you through preparing accurate income tax returns and meeting the required deadlines.

Step 1 – Gather Required Documents

Get your finished federal tax return, because Mississippi calculations start with your federal numbers.
Get all of your employer's W-2 forms and any 1099 forms that show other income, like interest, dividends, or contract payments.
If you want to itemize your deductions, keep receipts and records of your deductible expenses.
If you want your refund to go directly to your bank account, have your account and routing numbers ready.
Get a copy of your Mississippi tax return from last year to help you fill out this year's.

Step 2 – Choose Your Filing Status and Calculate Exemptions

Choose the filing status that fits your situation, like single, married filing jointly, or head of household. Find out if you can get more exemptions for dependents, people over 65, or people who are blind.

Step 3 – Complete Personal Information

Give your name, Social Security Number, address, county code, and information about your dependents. This information ensures that the Department of Revenue can connect your return to your tax records.

Step 4 – Report Your Income

Begin with your federal adjusted gross income and make any changes specific to Mississippi. You must tell the IRS about all of your sources of income, such as wages from your job, money you make on your own, and money you make from investments.

Step 5 – Select Deductions

Choose between taking the standard deduction and itemizing your deductions. To avoid problems with the IRS or state audits, only include expenses that are allowed, like mortgage interest or medical bills.

Step 6 – Calculate Your Taxable Income and Tax

Subtract your deductions and exemptions from your adjusted gross income to determine your taxable income. Apply the 2023 Mississippi tax rates to calculate the amount you owe.

Step 7 – Apply Credits

Claim any tax credits you are eligible for, such as the credit for taxes paid to another state or the dependent care credit. These reduce your total tax liability.

Step 8 – Report Payments and Withholding

List all Mississippi tax payments made during the year and the amounts withheld by your employer. This step determines whether you will receive a refund or owe additional taxes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not including your federal return, which is necessary for all Mississippi returns.
It could take longer to process and get your money back if you enter the wrong Social Security Number.
Your return may be sent back for corrections if you don't include the right forms or schedules.

How to File Your Mississippi Tax Return

Mississippi offers several filing options, so you can choose the process that best fits your needs. Selecting the right method can help you avoid mistakes, save money, and get your refund faster.

Electronic Filing (Recommended)

You can file your return through the Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) for free, giving you direct access to state services without mailing paperwork.
Approved online tax software providers allow you to prepare and file your return from any device, often with built-in error checks.
Certified tax preparers can e-file your return on your behalf, offering expert help and guidance.

Electronic filing provides faster refunds, reduces the risk of mistakes, and offers immediate confirmation that your return was received.

Paper Filing

If you prefer a paper process or can't e-file, you can mail your completed return to the Mississippi Department of Revenue.
If you want a refund, use the right mailing address. If you're sending in a payment, use the right one.
Follow all the rules for filing papers, like signing your return, using black ink, and putting W-2s and other forms in the right order.

Filing on paper usually takes longer to process and makes mistakes more likely, but it is still an option for those who want to use it.

How to Pay Your Mississippi Taxes

If you owe taxes after completing your Mississippi tax return, you have several payment options. Selecting the right method can help you avoid penalties, meet payment deadlines, and reduce hassle.

Online Payment Options

You can make payments through the Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) anytime without paying convenience fees. This option provides immediate confirmation that your payment has been received.
The Mississippi QuickPay system allows you to pay by credit card or e-check. A small convenience fee applies, but you can pay from any device.

Traditional Payment Methods

You may pay by check or money order payable to the Department of Revenue. This method suits those who prefer a paper trail and do not want to make payments online.
You can also make in-person payments at any Department of Revenue office. This option allows you to receive confirmation on the spot and ask questions if needed.
When paying by mail or in person, you must include Form 80-106, the payment voucher, so your payment is correctly applied to your account.

Payment Deadlines, Penalties, and Interest

All tax payments for 2023 returns are due by April 15, 2024, regardless of whether you have requested a filing extension.
If you miss the deadline, a late payment penalty of 0.5% per month will be applied, up to a maximum of 25%.
Interest on unpaid balances is also charged at 0.5% per month until the amount is paid in full.

Installment Agreements

You may qualify for an installment agreement if you owe between $75 and $3,000 in taxes and meet specific requirements, such as having filed all required returns for the past five years.
To request an installment plan, you must submit Form 71-661 with your tax return. This plan allows you to pay your balance over time while avoiding more serious collection actions.

How to Track Your Refund or Balance Due

Once you file your return, tracking your refund or confirming your remaining balance is important. Mississippi provides convenient tools for taxpayers to monitor their accounts and avoid unnecessary delays.

Online and Phone Options

You can check your refund status through the Mississippi TAP Refund Status tool, which provides real-time updates without requiring you to wait on hold.
An automated phone system is also available at (601) 923-7801. It allows you to check your refund status or balance due 24 hours a day by providing your Social Security Number and refund amount.

Processing Times

Refunds for returns filed electronically usually come within 10 business days, which makes e-filing the quickest way to get your money.
Refunds for paper-filed returns can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, depending on how many returns there are and if more verification is needed.
It can take 8 to 10 weeks for the Department of Revenue to process amended returns because they have to look at them by hand.

Direct Deposit Benefits and Requirements

Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure method for receiving your refund, reducing the risk of lost or stolen checks.
To use direct deposit, you must provide accurate routing and account numbers for a valid checking or savings account.
You must complete the direct deposit section of your return to authorize the Department of Revenue to send your refund electronically.

Final Filing Checklist

Before you send your return, use this checklist to make sure everything is complete and accurate. Taking a few minutes to verify your information can help you avoid processing delays, rejected returns, or reduced refunds.

Please ensure that your return includes all the necessary personal information, such as your full name, current address, and Social Security Number, so the Department of Revenue can handle it correctly.
You must include your federal return right behind your Mississippi return. This is required for all state filings and helps confirm your reported income.
To back up the taxes you've already paid through your employer or other payers, include all W-2 and 1099 forms showing Mississippi withholding.
If you claim tax that your employer or another payer withheld, you must include Form 80-107. This form breaks down the information needed for accurate processing.
Include all relevant schedules or credit forms, like Form 80-108 for itemized deductions or Form 80-160 for credit for taxes paid to another state.
Sign and date your return, and if you are filing jointly, make sure both spouses sign to acknowledge the accuracy of the information provided.
If you owe taxes, select your payment method, and attach Form 80-106 if you pay by mail to ensure your payment is applied to the correct account.
Verify that you are mailing your return to the correct address based on whether you expect a refund or are making a payment, as using the wrong address can delay processing.
Keep a copy of your completed return and all attachments for at least three years so you have them for future reference, audits, or questions from the IRS or state.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I begin my Mississippi tax return?

To start your Mississippi tax return, gather all forms from your employer, such as W-2s or 1099s, along with your completed federal return. Determine your filing status, review possible deductions, and select from the available filing options. Filing online from a device can make the process faster, help avoid mistakes, and ensure your return is complete before you send it by the filing date.

Can I get expert help when completing my own taxes?

You can work with tax experts or a financial institution to receive guidance when completing your taxes. They can review your forms, help determine deductions, and answer questions before signing. This expert help can be especially reassuring for a person filing for the first time. It may also reduce hassle and increase your chance of getting the maximum refund for the tax year.

What should I do if I owe taxes after filing?

If you owe taxes after filing, pay as soon as possible to avoid penalties and interest. You can make payments online, send a check with the payment voucher, or pay in person at a financial institution. The date your payment is received is important. If you cannot pay in full, you may request an installment agreement to spread the cost over several years.

How can I avoid a mistake on my tax return?

Review all personal information, income amounts, and deductions before signing to avoid a mistake on your tax return. Use the correct forms and compare figures to your federal return. Filing electronically can catch common errors during the process. If you have questions, contact a tax expert for guidance. Completing your return accurately helps prevent delays and unnecessary IRS follow-up.

Are there free filing options for Mississippi income tax returns?

Yes, free filing options are available for eligible taxpayers. You can access the Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point or approved e-file providers to file without paying a fee. These filing options can speed up your refund, reduce errors, and give you confirmation that your return is complete. Free services are especially helpful for a person filing for the first time or with a straightforward tax return.

How do I determine which deductions I can claim?

You can determine your deductions by reviewing Mississippi’s allowable expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and medical costs. Compare them with IRS guidelines to ensure accuracy. Keep receipts and documentation for each deduction. If you are unsure, seek expert help for guidance. Properly claiming deductions can reduce the amount you owe and potentially increase your refund, making your tax filing more effective and accurate.