Your Guide on How to File Your Ohio Tax Return 2017 Efficiently

Filing your Ohio state tax return for the 2017 tax year is essential for residents, part-year residents, and nonresidents with Ohio-sourced income. Whether you are an individual taxpayer, a sole proprietor, or a small business owner, understanding the filing process helps you meet your obligations and avoid unnecessary penalties. This guide will walk you through how to file your 2017 Ohio tax return efficiently, from gathering the proper forms to tracking your refund.

Many taxpayers are unsure which forms to use, how to claim credits like the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit, or whether they qualify for certain deductions. Knowing these details can help you reduce what you owe, increase your refund, and ensure your filing is complete and accurate. Following a straightforward, step-by-step approach, you can confidently prepare your return without missing essential requirements.

This article is designed for those unfamiliar with tax rules or filing procedures. It uses plain language to explain each process stage, offering practical tax tips and guidance on using tax software or working with a tax preparer. By the end, you will have a complete understanding of the process, know what documents to keep, and be able to confidently file your return—whether you choose to e-file or mail it in.

Overview of Ohio State Income Tax for 2017

Filing your Ohio tax return for the 2017 tax year begins with understanding the state’s rules, income thresholds, and deadlines. The Ohio Department of Taxation sets specific filing requirements for residents, part-year residents, and nonresidents who earned income in the state. Knowing these details helps you determine if you need to file, which forms you must complete, and whether you may qualify for deductions or credits.

Who Needs to File

Ohio’s filing rules apply to several groups of taxpayers. You must file an Ohio state income tax return for the 2017 tax year if you fall into any of the following categories:

Residents and part-year residents with taxable income: This includes wages, self-employment earnings, and other taxable sources such as investment income, rental income, or retirement distributions subject to Ohio tax. Part-year residents must report income earned during the portion of the year they lived in Ohio.
Nonresidents with Ohio-sourced income: You are required to file if you received wages earned in Ohio, Ohio lottery winnings, casino gaming winnings from Ohio facilities, income or gains from property located in Ohio, income from a sole proprietorship operating in the state, or income from pass-through entities (such as partnerships or S-corporations) that conduct business in Ohio.
Residents with out-of-state income: If you are an Ohio resident who earned income in another state, you may qualify for the resident credit to avoid double taxation. However, you must still file an Ohio tax return to claim this credit, even if your out-of-state employer withheld that state’s taxes.
Special rule for border state residents: Full-year nonresidents from Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Michigan, or Pennsylvania do not need to file an Ohio return if their only Ohio income is wages from an employer located in Ohio, provided the employer is unrelated to them. This exemption helps reduce unnecessary filings for commuters whose only connection to Ohio income is through non-related employment.

By understanding these rules, you can determine whether you must file and take advantage of credits or deductions you may be entitled to claim. Filing when necessary also ensures compliance and avoids unexpected notices from the Ohio Department of Taxation.

Income Thresholds and Filing Requirements

You are not required to file an Ohio tax return if:

Your Ohio adjusted gross income is $0 or less.
Your exemption amount equals or exceeds your Ohio adjusted gross income.
The total of your senior citizen credit, lump sum distribution credit, and joint filing credit equals or exceeds your tax liability, and you are not responsible for income tax in your school district.

Even if you meet one of these exceptions, the Ohio Department of Taxation recommends filing if your federal adjusted gross income exceeds $12,950 to avoid receiving a delinquency notice.

Key Changes for 2017

The 2017 tax year introduced adjustments that could affect how much you owe or the refund you expect:

Ohio eliminated the two lowest income tax brackets, so taxpayers with $10,650 or less do not pay state income tax.
All tax brackets were indexed for inflation, which can lower your overall tax liability.
The low-income credit was removed, as it became unnecessary with the bracket changes.

Filing Deadlines

Standard deadline: April 17, 2018.
Extended deadline: October 15, 2018, if you filed for a federal extension. Remember, an extension only provides more time to file your tax return; any tax owed must be paid by April 17, 2018, to avoid penalties and interest.

Understanding these requirements and changes ensures you can accurately prepare your Ohio tax return, claim any credits you qualify for, and avoid late filing issues.

What Forms to Use

Choosing the correct forms is essential for accurately completing your Ohio tax return for the 2017 tax year. Using the wrong form can delay processing, cause errors in calculating your income tax, and even result in a notice from the Ohio Department of Taxation.

Primary Form

The Ohio IT 1040 Individual Income Tax Return is the main form for individual taxpayers. In 2015, Ohio consolidated the IT 1040, IT 1040EZ, and IT 1040X into a single version to simplify filing. Whether you are filing an original or amended return for 2017, this form is used. You can download the official 2017 version directly from the Ohio IT 1040 Forms and Instructions page.

Common Schedules and Credits

Depending on your situation, you may need to include additional schedules with your return:

Schedule A—Income Adjustments: This template reports additions or deductions to your federal adjusted gross income, such as certain retirement income or business deductions.
Schedule IT BUS – Business Income: Required for taxpayers with income from sole proprietorships, partnerships, S-corporations, or other pass-through entities operating in Ohio.
Schedule of Credits: For claiming nonrefundable and refundable credits, including the earned income tax credit, child tax credit, and dependent care credit.
Schedule J – Dependents: Required if you are claiming exemptions for dependents.

Additional Forms

In some cases, you may also need to complete:

When sending a payment with your filing, use payment vouchers (IT 40P for original returns, IT 40XP for amended returns).
School district forms (SD 100, SD 40P) if you live in a district with its own income tax.
Use form IT/SD 2210 to calculate any interest penalty for underpayment of estimated tax.

The Ohio Department of Taxation provides all official 2017 forms in PDF format on its Tax Forms Search page. You can download, print, and complete them before mailing or uploading them through approved e-file providers.

By selecting the correct forms and schedules, you can ensure your return is processed quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of delays or adjustments.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Complete Your Return

Completing your Ohio tax return for 2017 is easier when you follow a transparent, numbered process. These steps help ensure accuracy, maximize your credits, and avoid needing amended returns later.

1. Gather Required Documents Before You Start

Collect every form and record you will need to complete your return:

Income documents: W-2 forms from all employers, 1099 forms for interest, dividends, or contract work, and K-1s for partnership or S-corporation income.
Federal tax return: Keep your federal Form 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ handy, as your Ohio return starts with your federal adjusted gross income.
Deduction records: This includes receipts or statements for Ohio 529 plan contributions, medical expenses, long-term care insurance premiums, and military pay exclusions.
Out-of-state tax proof: Statements or W-2s showing taxes paid to another state if you plan to claim the resident credit.

Tip: Keep all records in a single folder so you can access them quickly if the Ohio Department of Taxation requests documentation.

2. Enter Personal Information and Choose Filing Status

On the Ohio IT 1040:

If you are filing jointly, enter your Social Security Number and your spouse’s Social Security Number.
Write your legal name and current mailing address exactly as they appear on your federal return.
Indicate your residency status: full-year, part-year, or nonresident.
Select your filing status—single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er)—to match your federal return.
Provide your school district number if required.

3. Calculate Your Ohio Adjusted Gross Income (OAGI)

Begin with your federal AGI from your federal return.
Use Schedule A to list additions to income, such as non-Ohio municipal bond interest or certain pass-through entity taxes.
Deduct allowable income reductions, including the business income deduction, Social Security benefits, or interest from Ohio public obligations.

4. Claim Exemptions and Apply the Child Tax Credit

Determine your exemption amount based on your total income: $2,300 per exemption for $40,000 or less, $2,050 for $40,001–$80,000, and $1,800 for income above $80,000.
If you have dependents, complete Schedule J to list each qualifying individual.
Review eligibility for the child tax credit, which can reduce your tax liability if you meet income and dependent qualifications.

5. Calculate Tax Liability and Apply the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Use the Ohio tax tables in the official instructions to determine your income tax based on taxable income.
If you have business income, subtract the business income deduction before calculating your tax.
If eligible, claim the earned income tax credit, which can increase your refund even if you owe no tax.

6. Record Payments, Refundable Credits, and Use These Tax Tips

Record:

Ohio income tax is withheld, as shown on your W-2s and 1099s.
Estimated tax payments made during the year.
Ensure to include any payments made during an extension.

Tax tips for accuracy:

Double-check your Social Security Number, school district code, and all math.
Sign and date your return before mailing or submitting electronically.
Attach all required forms, schedules, and documentation.

7. Decide Between Tax Software or a Tax Preparer

Tax software can simplify filing by guiding you through the process, identifying deductions, and submitting your return electronically.
A tax preparer may be worth the cost if you have complex income sources, multiple states, or significant credits to claim.

Approved filing options are on the Ohio Department of Taxation – File Now page.

How to File Your Return

You can file your Ohio tax return for the 2017 tax year electronically or by mailing paper forms. The right method depends on how quickly you want to process your return, whether you expect a refund, and how comfortable you are with using online services.

Electronic Filing (E-File)

Ohio offers secure online filing options that help you file faster and with fewer errors. You can e-file directly through the Ohio Department of Taxation’s approved providers or use trusted tax software such as TurboTax, which guides you through the process step-by-step. Electronic filing also allows you to receive your refund by direct deposit into your bank account, faster than waiting for a paper check.

If you owe and need to pay tax, you can do so online using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. Payments can be made directly from your checking or savings account at your financial institution, ensuring funds are transferred quickly and securely.

Paper Filing

If you prefer to submit a paper return, visit the Ohio Department of Taxation’s website to download the correct forms and instructions. When mailing your return, include all schedules and documentation, and use the correct address based on whether you are including a payment. If paying by check or money order, write your Social Security Number, tax year, and form number on the payment so it is appropriately credited.

Processing Considerations

While electronic filing is generally quicker, some taxpayers choose paper filing for recordkeeping or personal preference. Remember that paper returns take longer to process—sometimes up to eight weeks—before you see your money back if you are owed a refund. Electronic filing can reduce this wait time to just a few weeks, saving time and dollars.

Using the Ohio Department of Taxation’s online filing service or IRS-approved software helps ensure accuracy and avoid delays. For details and approved e-filing resources, visit the state’s official website or consult the IRS for additional federal tax information.

How to Make a Payment

Once you have completed your Ohio tax return for the 2017 tax year, paying any amount owed by the deadline is essential to avoid penalties and interest. Ohio offers several convenient payment methods for taxpayers.

Online Payment Options

You can pay directly through the Ohio Department of Taxation’s secure online portal using:

Electronic check (ACH): Withdraws funds directly from your checking or savings account with no added fee.
Credit or debit card: Discover, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. The payment processor charges a small processing fee.

Online payments are processed quickly and provide immediate confirmation.

Payment by Check or Money Order for Amended Returns

If you file amended returns and owe additional tax, you can pay by check or money order.

Ensure that the payment is made payable to "Ohio Treasurer of State."
Include the correct payment voucher (IT 40P for original returns, IT 40XP for amended returns).
Include your Social Security Number, tax year, and form type on the payment.

Mail the payment to the address listed in the official 2017 instructions for your return type.

Deadlines and Penalties

Even if you file for an extension, any tax due must be paid by the original filing deadline—April 17, 2018—to avoid charges. Late payments are subject to:

Penalty: Up to 5% of the unpaid monthly tax per month, up to 25%.
Interest: Calculated from the original due date until payment is received.

Paying on time ensures you avoid unnecessary costs and keeps your account in good standing with the Ohio Department of Taxation.

How to Track Your Refund or Balance Due

After filing your Ohio tax return for the 2017 tax year, it is essential to know how to monitor your refund status or confirm any remaining balance due. Tracking your return helps you plan your finances and address any issues promptly.

Checking Refund Status

You can track your refund online through the Ohio Department of Taxation’s Where’s My Refund tool. To use it, you will need:

Your Social Security Number.
Your filing status.
The exact refund amount you claimed.

You may also check your refund status by calling the Ohio Refund Hotline at 1-800-282-1784.

Processing Times

Electronic returns: Generally processed within two to three days, with most refunds issued within 60 days.
Paper returns: Can take eight to ten weeks to process, sometimes longer if your return is selected for manual review.

A manual review does not necessarily mean there is a problem—it may simply be part of the Ohio Department of Taxation’s standard verification process.

Handling a Balance Due

If your return shows you owe additional tax, you have several options:

Pay online through the state’s secure payment portal.
Send a check or money order with the appropriate payment voucher.
Request a payment plan if you cannot pay the full amount immediately.

Addressing a balance due promptly helps avoid interest charges and late payment penalties.

Final Filing Checklist

Before sending your Ohio tax return for the 2017 tax year, take a few minutes to review these essential steps. Completing this checklist helps ensure your return is accurate, complete, and ready for processing without delays.

Verify all personal details. Make sure your Social Security Number, legal name, and address match what is on your federal return.
Confirm all required forms and schedules are included. Attach Schedule A, IT BUS, Schedule of Credits, and Schedule J if applicable.
Verify your calculations. Review your calculations on income, deductions, credits, and payments to help prevent underpayment or refund delays.
Include payment if owed. Attach the correct payment voucher (IT 40P or IT 40XP) and make checks payable to “Ohio Treasurer of State.”
Sign and date your return. Both spouses must sign if filing jointly.
Use the correct mailing address. Send your return to the address specified for your filing type, whether payment is included.
Keep copies of all documents. Retain your filed return, W-2s, 1099s, and supporting records for at least four years.

Completing these final steps reduces the risk of errors, saves processing time, and ensures you remain compliant with Ohio’s filing requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I missed the filing deadline?

Suppose you missed the April 17, 2018, deadline for your 2017 Ohio tax return. File as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest. Late filing penalties are generally higher than late payment penalties. Even if you cannot pay in full, submitting your return promptly helps avoid further charges and stabilizes your account with the Ohio Department of Taxation.

Can I e-file my Ohio tax return for free?

Ohio offers free e-filing options through approved providers based on your income and tax situation. Electronic filing is faster, reduces errors, and allows direct deposit of refunds. You can view all available free filing options on the Ohio Department of Taxation’s File Now page, which lists eligible software programs and online tools for submitting your return securely.

What deductions are most commonly overlooked?

Commonly missed deductions for Ohio taxpayers include Ohio 529 college savings contributions, military pay exclusions, long-term care insurance premiums, contributions to STABLE accounts, and specific overpaid state or municipal taxes. Reviewing the Ohio instructions carefully ensures you claim all eligible deductions, potentially increasing your refund or reducing the amount of tax you owe for the 2017 tax year.

How do I request an extension to file?

Ohio automatically grants an extension if you have received a federal extension using IRS Form 4868. This allows you to file by October 15, 2018. However, an extension applies only to filing, not payment. Any tax owed must be paid by the original April 17, 2018, deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Be sure to include any extension payment with the proper voucher.

Can I file jointly if I moved during the year?

If you were married during 2017 and filed jointly on your federal return, you can also file jointly on your Ohio return. If either spouse was a part-year resident, you must report only Ohio-sourced income for the portion of the year you lived in the state. This may require completing additional forms to calculate the correct taxable amount.

What if I have income from multiple states?

Ohio residents who paid income tax to another state may qualify for the resident credit, which helps prevent double taxation. You must file an Ohio return to claim this credit, providing documentation of taxes paid elsewhere. This reduces your tax liability appropriately and ensures compliance with Ohio's filing requirements for the 2017 tax year.

How long should I keep my tax records?

The Ohio Department of Taxation recommends keeping your tax returns and supporting documents for at least four years from the later filing due date or the actual filing date. This includes W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductions, and proof of tax payments. Maintaining thorough records allows you to respond quickly if questions or audits arise in the future.