How to File Your New Mexico Tax Return for 2013: Step-by-Step Guide

Filing your New Mexico tax return for 2013 may feel overwhelming, especially if you missed the original deadlines. The cost of filing late can be significant. Taxpayers who failed to submit their 2013 return on time face penalties of up to 20 percent of the tax owed and daily interest. This combination makes the process financially stressful and urgent for anyone needing to complete their 2013 filing.

Many taxpayers overlook crucial steps when preparing old tax returns. Using the wrong form number, forgetting to attach W-2s, or failing to calculate credits such as the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit can delay refunds for months. Errors like these can also cause you to lose money unnecessarily. The reality is that even a small mistake, such as entering an incorrect Social Security number, can stop your income tax return from being processed. These errors are easily avoidable if you prepare carefully.

This step-by-step guide explains how to file your 2013 New Mexico tax return 2013. We will cover who is required to file, which forms to use, and the documents you must gather before getting started. You will also learn about filing methods, payment options, penalties, and how to track your refund. Whether you are a resident, a part-year resident, or someone who earned income in New Mexico during 2013, this guide will help you complete your income tax return correctly and avoid costly mistakes.

Who Needs to File a New Mexico Tax Return for 2013?

Not everyone must submit a state income tax return, but many taxpayers fall under the filing rules. For 2013, New Mexico followed most federal income tax return requirements, applying its rules for residents, part-year residents, and non-residents. Before preparing your forms, the first step is understanding whether you qualify to file.

Residents

If you lived in New Mexico during 2013 and were required to file a federal income tax return, you must also file a New Mexico income tax return (Form PIT-1). This applies regardless of whether taxes were withheld from your paycheck. Even if you do not owe additional tax, filing ensures you can claim credits and refunds for which you are eligible.

Part-Year Residents

You are considered a part-year resident if you moved into or out of New Mexico during 2013. You must file a return if you earned income while living in New Mexico. You will report only the portion of income earned during the months you were a resident.

Non-Residents

You must file a return if you lived outside New Mexico but earned income from New Mexico sources in 2013. For example, if your employer was based in New Mexico or you owned rental property in the state, you must report that income using Form PIT-1.

Refund and Credit Filers

You may still file for a refund even if you had no filing requirement. Taxpayers can also file to claim credits such as the earned income tax credit, the child tax credit, or rebates available for low- and middle-income residents.

Federal and New Mexico 2013 Filing Requirements

Here are the federal gross income thresholds for 2013. If you were required to file a federal income tax return, you were also required to file a New Mexico return.

Single, under 65: File if income was $10,000 or more.
Single, 65 or older: File if income was $11,500.
Married filing jointly, both under 65: File if combined income was $20,000 or more.
Married filing jointly, one spouse 65 or older: File if combined income was $21,200 or more.
Head of household, under 65: File if income was $12,850 or more.

Special Situations

Some groups face unique filing rules:

Military personnel may have different requirements depending on duty status and residency.
Students who earned income in the state may still need to file even if supported by a family member.
Persons with disabilities may qualify for additional deductions or credits, making filing worthwhile even if income is below the threshold.

Knowing these requirements helps you decide whether to file. If unsure, contact the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department for clarification. Filing ensures compliance with state law and prevents costly penalties later.

Forms You Will Need

You must have the correct forms before filing your New Mexico tax return 2013. Using the wrong tax year’s paperwork is one of the most common and costly mistakes taxpayers make. Since the 2013 forms are no longer available on the current website, you must request them directly from the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department or other official sources.

Main Form

Form PIT-1 (Personal Income Tax Return): This is the core form that every taxpayer must complete for 2013. It records your income, filing status, deductions, and credits.

Supporting Forms and Schedules

Form PIT-ADJ (Additions, Deductions, and Exemptions): Use this to report modifications to your federal income, including state-specific deductions and exemptions.
Form PIT-CR (Business-Related Income Tax Credits): This schedule is required if you are eligible for certain business credits.
Form PIT-RC (Rebate and Credit Schedule): Needed to claim rebates or credits such as the working families tax credit.
Form PIT-D (Voluntary Contributions): You can contribute to specific New Mexico programs.
Form PIT-X (Amended Return): Required if you are correcting an error on a previously filed return.
Form RPD-41272 (Estimated Tax Penalty Calculation): Necessary if you owe penalties for underpayment of estimated taxes.

Where to Get the Correct Forms

Contact the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department: Call 1-866-285-2996 and request the 2013 forms by form number. They can mail them directly to your address.
Visit a Local District Office: Bring your identification and request the 2013 forms in person. Staff can provide physical copies.
Library Resources: Some local libraries maintain archived tax forms. Call the reference desk ahead to confirm availability.

Important Note

You cannot substitute current forms for the 2013 filing. Even though the layout of today’s forms looks similar, using the wrong form number will result in rejection. If you are unsure which documents you need, ask for assistance from the Taxation and Revenue Department to avoid delays and extra costs.

Preparing Before You File

The proper documents are crucial before you begin filling out Form PIT-1 for 2013. Missing paperwork is one of the leading reasons income tax returns are delayed or rejected. Having everything ready will save time and help you avoid easily preventable errors.

Documents You Will Need

Federal income tax return for 2013: Bring a copy of your Form 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ. Information from your federal return will be transferred directly to your New Mexico return.
W-2 forms from each employer: This shows your wages and taxes withheld from your paycheck. Make sure you have one for every job you held in 2013.
One thousand ninety-nine forms for additional income: Interest, dividends, retirement distributions, or other taxable payments must be reported.
Records of estimated tax payments: If you paid estimated income tax during 2013, keep the receipts or bank records as proof.
Social Security cards for each family member: Dependents must be listed exactly as they appear on Social Security records to prevent rejections.
Bank account information: You need your routing and account numbers to deposit your refund directly.
Prior year state and federal returns: These handy tools can help you confirm details, such as carryover credits or deductions.

Why Preparation Matters

Organizing your documents before you file reduces the chance of costly mistakes. If you forget to include a dependent, you could miss valuable credits such as the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit. Incorrect income figures from your employer’s W-2 may trigger delays or IRS letters. Missing account information could mean waiting weeks longer for your refund.

Estimate Before You Decide

Taxpayers benefit from preparing an estimate before submitting the final return. Reviewing how much you may owe or how much refund you expect can help you decide whether to set up a payment plan, adjust withholding, or double-check deductions. Preparing carefully up front ensures that your return is accurate and complete when you file.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your 2013 Return

Filing your New Mexico tax return for 2013 requires accuracy at every stage. Even one overlooked detail can delay your refund or trigger penalties. Follow these steps carefully to complete your income tax return correctly.

Step 1: Complete Personal Information

Write your full legal name, Social Security number, and date of birth.
If you are married, include your spouse’s information.
Indicate your residency status: resident, part-year resident, or non-resident.
Check the box provided if your mailing address has changed since your last filing.
Always double-check Social Security numbers for each family member. An incorrect number is one of the most common and costly errors.

Step 2: Select Your Filing Status and Exemptions

Choose the same filing status used on your federal income tax return. Options include: single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er) with dependent child.
List all dependents, ensuring names and Social Security numbers match official records.
If you have more than five dependents, use the supplemental schedule.
Remember that your filing status and dependents affect your eligibility for credits such as the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit.

Step 3: Report Your Income

Enter your federal adjusted gross income (AGI) from your 2013 federal return: line 38 of Form 1040, line 22 of Form 1040A, or line 4 of Form 1040EZ.
Add any required modifications using Schedule PIT-ADJ. This may include additions such as out-of-state income or deductions carried from federal forms.
Double-check income from all sources, including wages, business earnings, and retirement distributions. Forgetting to report income from one employer or a 1099 form could create issues with the IRS and New Mexico.

Step 4: Apply Deductions and Exemptions

Enter your federal standard or itemized deduction amount. If you itemized deductions on your federal return, check the box and transfer the total.
Add your federal exemption amount.
Apply any New Mexico-specific deductions, such as medical care expense deductions or the low- and middle-income exemption.
Always keep receipts and supporting documentation. The department may request proof for larger deductions.

Step 5: Calculate Tax and Credits

Determine your New Mexico taxable income using the calculation formula on the form.
Apply the New Mexico tax rate or use the official tax table.
Enter credits you qualify for, including:
1. Child tax credit if you have a qualifying child.
2. Earned income tax credit if your income falls within eligibility limits.
3. Credit for taxes paid to other states if you filed in multiple states.
4. Working families tax credit if you meet the requirements.
Use Schedule PIT-CR to record business or other specialized credits.

Step 6: Review and Avoid Common Mistakes

Before signing your form, double-check these details:

Did you use the correct form number for 2013? Current forms are not accepted.
Have you signed and dated the return? Both spouses must sign if filing jointly.
Did you attach all W-2s and 1099s? Missing forms can delay refunds.
Are all Social Security numbers correct for each dependent and family member?
Did you include all required schedules, such as PIT-ADJ or PIT-CR?
Did you confirm all math calculations? Minor errors can cost both time and money.

Why This Process Matters

Filing correctly saves you from avoidable costs and ensures you claim every credit you deserve. Forgetting to include a dependent could mean losing the child tax credit. Entering the wrong income amount could delay your refund for weeks. Taking the time to follow each step carefully is the difference between a smooth process and a stressful, expensive mistake.

How to File: Electronic vs. Paper Filing

For the 2013 tax year, New Mexico taxpayers originally had two filing options: electronic or paper. Electronic filing is no longer available for 2013 returns. However, it is essential to understand the differences since many readers may still compare methods when deciding how to file old or future returns.

Filing Electronically (No Longer Available for 2013)

When it was active, electronic filing offered clear advantages:

Faster refunds: Processing generally took two to four weeks compared to six to twelve weeks for paper returns.
Extended deadlines: Electronic filers had until April 30, 2014, instead of April 15, 2014, to file and pay.
Error reduction: Built-in checks reduced math mistakes and missing information.
Convenience: Taxpayers could file from home, receive confirmation of receipt, and set up direct deposit into their accounts.

Although this option is closed for the 2013 tax year, it demonstrates why electronic filing is strongly recommended for current and future tax returns. Filing electronically saves both time and money while reducing the chance of rejection.

Filing by Paper (Current Method for 2013 Returns)

Since the software is no longer available, anyone filing a 2013 New Mexico return must mail a paper form. The steps are straightforward but slower:

Complete Form PIT-1 and all required schedules.
Attach copies of W-2s, 1099s, and other supporting forms.
Sign and date the return. Both spouses must sign if filing jointly.
Include a check or money order if you owe taxes. Make it payable to “New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department,” and write “2013 PIT” and your Social Security number on the memo line.
Mail the return and all attachments to:
- New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, P.O. Box 25122, Santa Fe, NM 87504-5122.

Comparing the Two Methods

The electronic system offered faster refunds, lower costs, and fewer errors. In contrast, the paper process is slower and prone to mistakes, especially if documents are missing. Paper returns typically take six to eight weeks to process during the early season and up to twelve weeks when filed late. Amended paper returns may take up to sixteen weeks.

Why Paper Filing Still Matters

Even though the process feels painfully slow, filing by paper is the only option for 2013 returns. Failing to file at all is far more costly than waiting. Late filers should mail their return as soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest.

Penalties, Interest, and Late Filing

Missing the filing deadline for your 2013 New Mexico tax return can be costly. Taxpayers who did not file on time may face penalties, daily interest, and long-term consequences. Even if you cannot pay the full balance, filing your income tax return as soon as possible will significantly reduce the financial damage.

Failure to File Penalty

If you missed the original filing deadline (April 15, 2014, or April 30, 2014 for electronic filers), you are subject to a penalty of 2 percent of the unpaid tax per month. This penalty is capped at 20 percent of the total owed. The percentage is applied for every month your return remains unfiled.

Failure to Pay Penalty

If you filed your return but did not pay the amount due, another penalty of 2 percent per month applies. This also has a maximum of 20 percent. The longer the delay past the original due date, the more the penalty grows.

Interest Charges

In addition to penalties, interest is charged daily on unpaid balances. Unlike penalties that stop when the cap is reached, interest accumulates until the full amount is paid. Interest is based on the state’s published rate and added to the unpaid tax and penalties.

Why Filing Even Late Matters

It is important to note that the failure-to-file penalty is more severe than the failure-to-pay penalty. Filing the return, even if you cannot pay in full, can save you significant money. Taxpayers who wait not only increase their balance through penalties but also miss opportunities to claim credits or refunds.

Federal and State Consequences

Unpaid New Mexico income tax can lead to collection actions like federal income tax debts. These include garnishment of paychecks, liens on property, and interception of future refunds. Filing late can therefore impact both your state and federal finances.

Important Reminder

If you still need to file your 2013 return, do it immediately. Mark the correct tax year clearly on the form and mailing envelope. Confirm the mailing date on your records in case of disputes. Keep a copy of the filed return and payment receipt for future reference.

Payment Options and Installment Plans

You still have several ways to pay if you owe money on your 2013 New Mexico tax return. The New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department provides flexible options to help taxpayers meet their obligations, even if they cannot pay the entire balance simultaneously. Moving swiftly as penalties and interest accumulate until you settle the whole amount is crucial.

Payment by Check or Money Order

Make payments payable to “New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department.”
Write your Social Security number and “2013 PIT” on the memo line to ensure proper credit.
Include the payment with your completed forms when mailing your income tax return.
Always make a copy of the payment page for your records before mailing.

Online Payment Through the Website

Taxpayers can pay online through the official New Mexico Taxpayer Access Point (TAP). This website allows you to:

Pay directly from a checking or savings account.
Pay by credit card (note: a convenience fee may apply).
Access your account to confirm whether your payment was received.

Using the online system is faster and more secure than mailing a check. It confirms immediately that your payment has been credited to the correct year.

Phone Payments

If you prefer not to use the website, call 1-866-285-2996 to pay by phone. Have your bank or credit card information ready. This option is handy for taxpayers who want direct confirmation from a representative.

Installment Agreements

Not every taxpayer can pay their full balance immediately. You may be eligible for a payment plan if you cannot pay in full. To set one up:

Contact the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department to request an installment agreement.
Provide financial details so the department can evaluate your ability to pay.
Agree to a monthly payment amount and due date.
Continue making payments on time to avoid default.

If you cannot pay the full amount, always file your return. Filing reduces the higher failure-to-file penalty, and an installment plan helps spread the cost over time. Waiting to file only increases what you owe in penalties and interest.

Tracking Your Refund or Balance Due

After filing your New Mexico tax return for 2013, you can confirm the status of your refund or see if you still owe money. Fortunately, the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department provides tools that make this process straightforward.

Online Refund Tracking

The fastest way to check your refund is through the Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) website. On this site, taxpayers can search for their refund status by entering their Social Security number and the expected refund amount. The system provides immediate updates about whether your return has been received, processed, or delayed.

Refund Status Messages

When you search for your refund, you may see one of several responses:

“Your refund is being processed.” This means your return has been accepted and is under review.
“Information could not be found.” This typically occurs if your return has not yet been entered into the system or if there is an error on the form.
“Your refund has been issued.” Refunds are sent either by direct deposit into your account or by paper check in the mail.
“Your refund was intercepted.” Refunds may be applied to unpaid taxes, child support, or other debts owed to government agencies.

Processing Timelines

Paper returns filed late can take up to twelve weeks to process.
Amended returns may take twelve to sixteen weeks.
Processing may require additional verification if you claimed credits such as the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit for a qualifying child.

Tracking a Balance Due

If you owe taxes, the same website allows you to view your balance and payment history. This feature ensures you can confirm whether your payment has been applied correctly. Taxpayers who cannot access the website can call the department directly. Keep a copy of your return, confirmation page, or payment receipt. Having these records protects you if there are disputes about your filing or refund status.

Final Filing Checklist

Before you seal the envelope or confirm payment on the website, it is essential to review your return one last time. Small mistakes can delay refunds or increase your debt. Use this checklist to confirm that every requirement has been met.

Required Items to Include

Form PIT-1 is completed with blue or black ink or typed clearly.
The taxpayer and spouse sign and date the return if filing jointly.
Social Security numbers for each dependent and family member are entered correctly.
All required schedules attached, including PIT-ADJ, PIT-CR, or PIT-RC if needed.
Copies of W-2 forms from every employer and 1099 forms for other income sources.
A copy of the federal income tax return is attached if you claim certain credits.
Use the bank account information to deposit your refund directly.
Payment is included if you owe, whether by check, money order, or electronic confirmation page.
Copies of every document are made for your records.

Mailing Instructions

Verify that you use the correct mailing address: P.O. Box 25122, Santa Fe, NM 87504-5122.
Apply sufficient postage. Consider certified mail for proof of mailing, especially when filing late.
Double-check that your payment is labeled with the correct tax year and Social Security number.

Final Notes

Remember to include all dependents. Missing one could result in loss of credits like the child tax credit or the earned income tax credit.
Review each page of the forms before submission. A single unchecked box can hold up your refund for weeks.
Filing late is better than not filing at all. Submitting now can still reduce penalties and prevent interest from growing further.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I still claim the earned income tax credit on my 2013 New Mexico return?

You can still claim the earned income tax credit if you were eligible in 2013. Even though the filing deadline has passed, filing now may reduce penalties and allow you to receive money owed. Always file your taxes as soon as possible, even if late. You may qualify for free assistance through the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department.

What happens if I qualify for the child tax credit but miss the deadline?

If you had a qualifying child in 2013, you may still file taxes to claim the child tax credit. Filing late can increase penalties, but claiming the credit may offset what you owe or increase your refund. Contact the state tax office for guidance, and consider using free resources to help prepare your forms correctly.

Do I need to attach a copy of my federal income tax return to my 2013 New Mexico return?

Occasionally, you must attach your federal income tax return, particularly when claiming certain credits or deductions. Failing to include it could delay processing and increase the time it takes to receive a refund. Always file your taxes with complete documentation. If you are uncertain, the department provides free instructions to confirm when attachments are required.

Can I get a refund if I missed credits like the earned income tax credit or child tax credit?

Yes, filing now allows you to claim credits you missed earlier. If you were eligible for the earned income tax credit or child tax credit in 2013, filing may result in a refund even with penalties applied. Do not wait any longer to file your taxes. Free support is available through official channels to help with older returns.

Where can I get help preparing my 2013 New Mexico tax return?

You have several options for assistance. You can contact the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department directly, visit a district office, or ask a qualified tax professional to help you file your taxes. Some community programs and libraries may also offer free tax preparation services. Taking advantage of these resources ensures your return is accurate and complete.

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