Filing your Missouri taxes for the 2019 tax year can be straightforward when you understand the process and have the right guidance. The Missouri Department of Revenue has clear instructions and resources to help you file your taxes correctly, whether you are an individual taxpayer, a small business owner, or someone who earned money in other states. You will be sure to meet all state requirements if you get your papers ready and know what form you need.

People who live in Missouri, rent or own a home, and earn money that is taxable may need to file a state return even if they have already filed a federal return. If you live in another state but work in Missouri, you may still have to pay Missouri taxes on the money you make there. You can also get credits for taxes you pay to other states, which helps you avoid paying taxes twice while still following the rules.

The Department of Revenue can help you with updated instructions, online tools, and in-person services if you are unsure about which form to use or how to fill it out. You can view and find resources on their official website to guide you through each step. Filing on time not only helps you avoid penalties but also ensures any refund owed to you is processed quickly.

Understanding Missouri State Income Tax for 2019

Who Must File

Not every taxpayer is required to file a Missouri return, but you must do so if you meet certain criteria. Filing ensures you remain compliant and helps you claim refunds for any Missouri income tax withheld.

  • Residents: You must file if your Missouri adjusted gross income is at least $1,200. This threshold is lower than the federal filing requirement, so many residents qualify even with modest income.

  • Nonresidents: You must file if you earned $600 or more from Missouri sources, such as wages from a Missouri employer.

  • Standard deduction thresholds: You must file if your Missouri adjusted gross income equals or exceeds your standard deduction for your filing status.

Even if you do not meet these requirements, you must file if Missouri tax was withheld from your paycheck. This is the only way to receive a refund for those withholdings.

Residency Status and Missouri-Source Income

Your filing requirements for 2019 are determined by your residency status, which affects what income is taxable in Missouri. The state has clear rules for full-year, nonresident, and part-year residents, ensuring that only Missouri-source income or income earned while living in the state is taxed.

  • Full-year residents: Report all income from any source, regardless of where it was earned. You can claim credit for taxes paid to other states, which helps prevent double taxation when you work outside Missouri.

  • Nonresidents: Report only income earned from Missouri sources, such as wages from a Missouri employer or rental income from Missouri property. You do not pay Missouri tax on income earned entirely outside the state.

  • Part-year residents: Report all income earned while you lived in Missouri. For the rest of the year, report only Missouri-source income. This status applies if you moved into or out of Missouri during 2019.

Understanding these distinctions ensures you report income correctly and pay only the taxes required under Missouri law.

Key Filing Deadlines for Missouri Taxes 

Missouri sets firm deadlines for filing returns, which vary based on your tax year. Meeting these deadlines is critical to avoid penalties and interest.

  • Calendar-year filers: The original filing deadline for 2019 returns is April 15, 2020, which applies to most individual taxpayers.

  • Fiscal year filers: If you follow a fiscal year, your return is due by the 15th day of the fourth month after your fiscal year ends.

Filing late can result in failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties and interest on unpaid taxes. Planning and marking deadlines on your calendar helps you stay compliant.

Important Changes from 2018

For 2019, Missouri introduced updates and continued certain benefits that directly affected how you prepare your return.

  • First-Time Home Buyer deduction: You may deduct up to $800 if single or $1,600 if married filing jointly for contributions to an eligible First-Time Home Buyer savings account. This deduction encourages home ownership by lowering taxable income.

  • Updated standard deductions: Missouri’s standard deduction amounts now match the federal increases, potentially reducing taxable income for many filers.

  • Ongoing Missouri-specific credits: Credits for certain expenses, investments, and activities remain available. These include property tax credits, credits for taxes paid to other states, and other targeted incentives that can reduce your final tax bill.

These changes highlight the importance of reviewing the latest Department of Revenue guidance before you file, especially if your financial situation has changed since your last return.

Choosing the Right Forms

Selecting the correct Missouri tax form for 2019 ensures your return is processed correctly. The form you choose depends on your filing situation, the complexity of your income sources, and whether you are claiming specific deductions or credits. Using the wrong form may result in delays or the need to file an amended return.

Main Tax Forms

  • Form MO-1040 (Long Form): This is Missouri’s standard form for individuals with more complex tax situations. You must use it if you have income from other states, claim a pension, Social Security, or military exemptions, are eligible for the property tax credit, or need to itemize deductions with Missouri-specific adjustments.

  • Form MO-1040A (Short Form): This simplified version is intended for taxpayers with straightforward returns who do not claim special deductions, credits, or exemptions. It can save time for individuals with only basic income and standard deduction claims.

Common Schedules and Supporting Forms

  • Form MO-CR: Used by residents to claim credit for taxes paid to other states, preventing double taxation on the same income.

  • Form MO-NRI: Nonresidents must calculate Missouri taxable income from Missouri sources.

  • Form MO-PTS: Allows eligible homeowners and renters to claim the property tax credit, which can provide significant tax relief.

  • Form MO-TC: Used to claim miscellaneous Missouri tax credits, such as credits for certain business investments or charitable activities.

  • Form MO-A: Required for itemizing deductions that differ from your federal return, ensuring Missouri-specific adjustments are applied.

  • Form MO-60: Used to request a filing extension if you owe Missouri taxes. While it extends your filing time, it does not extend your payment deadline.

  • Form MO-1040V: A payment voucher for submitting tax payments separately from your return.

  • Form MO-1040ES: Used to make estimated quarterly tax payments, especially important for self-employed individuals or those with income not subject to withholding.

All current and prior year forms are available for download at dor.mo.gov/forms or by calling the Missouri Department of Revenue to request paper copies.

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before beginning your Missouri 2019 tax return, assemble all necessary records to ensure accuracy and avoid delays. This includes income forms such as W-2s, 1099s, self-employment income statements, and Social Security benefit statements. Keep receipts for deductible expenses, which include charitable contributions, medical costs, mortgage interest, and Missouri-specific records such as property tax receipts and rent verification if you are claiming applicable credits.

Step 2: Complete Your Federal Return First

Missouri’s tax calculation starts with your federal adjusted gross income, so completing your federal return is a critical first step. Once your federal return is finished, you can transfer the necessary figures directly to your Missouri form, ensuring consistency and reducing the risk of calculation errors.

Step 3: Fill Out Form MO-1040

Carefully enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your federal return, including your Social Security number, address, and filing status. Begin with your federal adjusted gross income, then apply Missouri additions and subtractions as required. Select either the standard deduction or itemized deductions, using Form MO-A if you choose to itemize with Missouri-specific adjustments.

Step 4: Calculate Tax and Apply Credits

Use the Missouri 2019 tax tables or rate schedules to determine your tax liability. Apply eligible credits, such as the property tax credit, the resident credit for taxes paid to other states, or any miscellaneous credits from Form MO-TC. These credits directly reduce the amount of tax you owe and can sometimes result in a refund.

Step 5: Determine Refund or Balance Due

After applying all credits and subtracting any withholding or estimated tax payments, determine whether you have a balance due or are owed a refund. If you owe, arrange payment using one of Missouri’s accepted methods to avoid penalties and interest. To expedite the processing of your refund, think about utilizing direct deposit.

Step 6: Review and Submit

Before submitting your return, review every section for accuracy. Confirm that all forms and schedules are attached, signatures are in place, and the correct mailing address is used if filing by paper. Keep copies of your return and all supporting documentation for at least three years if the Department of Revenue requests verification.

Filing Methods

Electronic Filing (E-File)

Electronic filing is faster and more accurate when submitting your 2019 Missouri tax return. It allows you to receive a direct deposit refund in as little as 2–3 weeks and provides immediate confirmation of receipt. If your federal adjusted gross income is $32,000 or less, you may qualify to e-file for free through approved vendors.

Paper Filing

Paper filing requires printing and mailing your completed return to the Department of Revenue. Processing times are longer, often taking 6–8 weeks, and you will not receive immediate confirmation that your return was received. Use the correct mailing address based on whether you owe taxes or expect a refund.

  • Refund/no amount due:
    Missouri Department of Revenue
    P.O. Box 500,
    Jefferson City, MO 65106-0500

  • Balance due:
    Missouri Department of Revenue
    P.O. Box 329,
    Jefferson City, MO 65107-0329

Payment Methods

Online Payments

The Missouri Department of Revenue accepts online payments through its secure payment portal. You can pay using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check (ACH). Convenience fees may apply for card payments. Online payments are processed immediately, providing confirmation and reducing the risk of late payment penalties.

Mailed Payments

You can mail a check or money order payable to “Missouri Department of Revenue,” including your Social Security number and the tax year on the memo line. If paying without filing a return, include Form MO-1040V with your payment. Be sure to mail it to the correct address to ensure timely processing.

Estimated Taxes

Individuals with income not subject to withholding, such as self-employment earnings, may need to make quarterly estimated payments using Form MO-1040ES. These payments help you avoid underpayment penalties and should be made by the due dates specified by the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Tracking Refunds or Balances Due

Online Status Check

The Department of Revenue offers the Return Inquiry System, which allows you to track your refund or verify your balance due. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and your return's refund amount or balance. Online results are available 24/7.

Automated Phone System

You can call 573-751-3505 to access Missouri’s automated refund and balance inquiry system anytime. This service provides updates similar to those offered by the online system and is helpful if you prefer not to use a computer.

Processing Times

  • E-filed returns: These are generally processed within 2–3 weeks, making them the fastest option for receiving a refund. Using direct deposit can shorten the wait time even further.

  • Paper returns: Paper submissions may take 6–8 weeks to process, so choose this option only if you cannot e-file. Delays are more common with this method.

  • Returns with errors: Mistakes such as incorrect Social Security numbers, missing forms, or calculation errors can significantly slow processing. Double-checking your return helps prevent these issues.

Missouri Property Tax Credit

The Missouri Property Tax Credit is designed to help particular residents offset part of the real estate taxes or rent they have paid.

  • Seniors: Individuals aged 65 or older qualify, even if they still work or have additional income sources.

  • Disabled persons: Residents who are 100% disabled, as defined by Social Security or Veterans Affairs, are eligible.

  • Surviving spouses: Individuals aged 60 or older who receive Social Security survivor benefits may also claim this credit.

Income Limits and Credit Amounts

Your maximum household income and whether you own or rent your home determine how much credit you can receive.

  • Homeowners: Those earning up to $30,000 (single) or $34,000 (married filing jointly) may receive a credit of up to $1,100.

  • Renters: Those earning up to $27,500 (single) or $29,500 (married filing jointly) may receive a credit of up to $750.

Required Documentation

To claim the credit, you must provide proof of residency, payment of property tax, or rent verification.

  • Homeowners: Supply a copy of your paid real estate tax receipt and property assessment notice.

  • Renters: Provide a signed rent verification form from your landlord confirming the amount paid during the year.

  • Verification: Seniors and disabled individuals should also provide age or disability verification, such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, or VA/Social Security documentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not filing when withholding exists: Even if your income is below the filing threshold, you should still file if Missouri taxes were withheld from your paycheck. Filing is the only way to receive a refund for the withheld amount.

  • Using the wrong address: Missouri has separate mailing addresses for returns expecting a refund versus those with a balance due. Sending your return to the wrong location can cause delays in processing.

  • Omitting required attachments: Forgetting to include W-2s, 1099s, or supporting schedules can lead to processing delays or rejection of your return. Always review the instructions for the required forms.

  • Making math errors: Calculation mistakes are a common reason for processing delays. Double-check all figures, and if possible, use e-filing software to reduce errors.

  • Mismatched Social Security numbers: Your Social Security number must match exactly with the records held by the Social Security Administration. Any mismatch will flag your return and delay it.

Final Filing Checklist

  • Complete all sections accurately: Ensure every line on your return is filled out correctly and that your personal information matches your federal return.

  • Attach all required documents: Include W-2s, 1099s, and any schedules or credit forms needed to support your return.

  • Select your payment method: If you owe taxes, select an accepted payment option and include Form MO-1040V if you are paying separately.

  • Use the correct mailing address: Check whether your return should go to the refund or balance-due address and ensure it is mailed on time.

  • Sign your return: Unsigned returns are considered incomplete and will not be processed by the Missouri Department of Revenue.

  • Keep copies for your records: Retain a copy of your filed return and all supporting documents for at least three years.

  • Provide direct deposit information: If expecting a refund, include your bank routing and account numbers for faster payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I miss the April 15, 2020, deadline for my 2019 return?

If you miss the original deadline, file your Missouri return as soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest. If you are due a refund, there is no penalty for late filing, but your refund will not be issued until you file. Payments made late will accrue interest until paid.

Can I e-file my Missouri 2019 return for free?

If your 2019 federal adjusted gross income is $32,000 or less, you may qualify for Missouri's Free File program. This service allows you to e-file your federal and Missouri returns at no cost through approved vendors. Filing electronically also speeds up processing and allows direct deposit for faster refunds.

What deductions or credits are commonly missed for 2019?

Many taxpayers overlook the property tax credit, military pension exemptions, Social Security exemptions, and deductions for First-Time Home Buyer account contributions. Missouri also offers specific credits for charitable donations and investments. Reviewing the Missouri Department of Revenue’s updated credit list can help ensure you claim all benefits you are entitled to.

How does a Missouri extension work if I have a federal extension?

Missouri automatically grants the same filing extension if you have a federal extension. However, you must still pay any Missouri taxes owed by the original due date to avoid interest and penalties. If you anticipate owing taxes, submit Form MO-60 along with your payment. Extensions apply to filing, not to paying taxes.

How do part-year residents handle filing? 

Part-year residents file as Missouri residents for the portion of the year they lived in the state, reporting all income earned during that time. For the remainder of the year, they report only Missouri-source income. They may also need to file returns in other states and claim a resident credit for taxes paid elsewhere.

What is included in a Missouri individual income tax return for 2019?

A Missouri individual income tax return reports your taxable income, deductions, and credits for the year. It includes personal details, income from all sources, Missouri-specific adjustments, and applicable tax credits. Filing ensures you meet state requirements, pay any taxes owed, or claim refunds due. Always review instructions to complete your return accurately.

How do I track my Missouri 2019 tax refund?

You can track your refund using the Missouri Return Inquiry System online at dor.mo.gov/returnstatus. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount. E-filed returns are typically processed in 2–3 weeks, while paper returns take 6–8 weeks. Errors or missing information may cause additional delays.