How to File Your Idaho Tax Return for 2019: A Step-by-Step Guide

Filing your Idaho state income taxes for 2019 is a legal obligation that applies to many residents, part-year residents, and even some nonresidents. Whether you are an employee, independent contractor, or small business owner, knowing how to file your Idaho tax return for 2019 will help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties. Timely and accurate filing also ensures access to any refund the state may owe you.

When you file your state return, the Idaho State Tax Commission requires a complete copy of your federal tax return. Your residency status, income level, and filing category, such as single or joint return, determine your filing eligibility. If you are due a refund, having the correct checking account and financial institution details will make the process faster. If you owe money, your payment must be made by the deadline—even if you file for an extension.

Gather all necessary information and double-check your entries to ensure your return is accepted. Filing correctly helps you avoid delays, safeguard your refund, and maintain financial stability. This guide will walk you through each step of the process so you can complete your return confidently and on time.

Who Needs to File an Idaho Tax Return?

Understanding who must file a 2019 Idaho tax return depends on your residency status, income level, and filing category. The state uses guidelines similar to those of the federal government, meaning if you file a federal tax return, you may also be required to file with Idaho. This applies whether you lived in Idaho all year, moved in or out during the year, or earned Idaho-sourced income while living elsewhere.

Idaho considers you a resident if it was your permanent home throughout 2019. You are a part-year resident if you lived in the state for part of the year. You are treated as a nonresident if you live in another state but earn income from Idaho-based sources. Each group's specific income thresholds and filing categories determine your filing requirement.

Individuals under 65 must file an Idaho tax return if they earned at least $12,200 in gross income during the 2019 tax year.
Married couples who file a joint return must file with Idaho if their combined gross income reaches or exceeds $24,400.
Heads of households under 65 during 2019 must file if their annual gross income was $18,350 or more.
Part-year residents must file if they had more than $2,500 in gross income while residing in Idaho, regardless of income earned outside the state.
Nonresidents must file an Idaho return if they earned more than $2,500 in income from Idaho-based sources, such as wages, business earnings, or rental income.

If your income fits any of the above categories, you must complete and file an Idaho tax return for the 2019 tax year. Filing protects your eligibility to receive a refund and provides formal access to your financial records if they are needed in the future. It ensures you remain in compliance, avoids penalties, and allows you to determine how much you owe accurately or are owed in tax dollars.

2019 Deadlines and Refund Status Details

Meeting Idaho’s tax deadlines for the 2019 tax year is critical in avoiding financial penalties, added interest, or delayed refunds. This tax return is for money made in 2019, but all the essential filing and payment deadlines were in 2020. If you failed to act by these key dates, your refund may be held or reduced, and you could owe additional money.

Filing and Payment Deadlines

The deadline for filing your Idaho tax return for 2019 was April 15, 2020. This was the standard due date for all residents and part-year filers.
If you requested an extension, your deadline was moved to October 15, 2020. This gave extra time to submit forms but did not delay payment.
Even with an extension, your payment was due by April 15, 2020. If you did not pay by this date, interest and penalties will likely accrue on the unpaid balance.

If you missed the deadline and still haven’t filed, submitting your return immediately is essential. Each month of delay can add more dollars in late fees, increasing the total amount you owe.

Tracking Your Refund

You can check your refund status by contacting the Idaho State Tax Commission directly. Their staff can confirm if your return has been received and processed.
E-filed returns are typically processed within 7 to 8 weeks. This faster option reduces errors and speeds up direct deposit.
Paper returns may take 10 to 11 weeks or more to process. They involve manual data entry, which increases processing time.
First-time filers may experience longer delays. Setting up a new taxpayer account requires additional identity checks and system setup.

Monitoring your refund status ensures you stay informed about your expected payment and allows timely action if issues arise. If processing takes longer than expected, confirm that all documents were submitted correctly and that your financial account information is accurate for direct deposit.

What Forms and Documents You’ll Need

To properly file your Idaho tax return for 2019, you must gather the correct forms and supporting documents before you begin. Filing without the required information may result in delays, penalties, or a denied refund. Keeping your paperwork in order ensures you file your taxes correctly and on time with the state. The forms and schedules you need depend on your residency status and income sources.

Primary Idaho Income Tax Forms

Form 40 is used by Idaho full-year residents. It’s the standard return form for anyone who lived in Idaho for the entire year and earned income either in-state or out-of-state.
Form 43 is designed for part-year residents and nonresidents. This form applies if you moved in or out of Idaho during 2019 or earned Idaho-source income while living elsewhere.
Your filing status on the state form must match your federal return. If you filed a joint return with the IRS, your Idaho return must reflect the same filing status.

Supporting Schedules and Additional Forms

Form 39R is required for full-year residents using Form 40. It reports additions, subtractions, and credits that adjust total income or tax liability.
Form 39NR serves the same purpose for Form 43 filers, helping part-year and nonresident taxpayers calculate credits and modifications to their Idaho income.
Form 44 reports tax credit recapture, such as when you moved out of state and no longer qualify for a previously claimed in-state credit.
Form 75 is necessary for taxpayers reporting fuel tax information, such as those in farming or transportation-related industries.
You must also include a complete copy of your federal return, such as Form 1040 or 1040-SR, along with all W-2s and 1099s and documentation for deductions, credits, or estimated payments made throughout the year.

Gathering complete forms and documents helps your return process go smoothly. It also gives the Idaho State Tax Commission the information needed to determine your correct tax or refund amount. Keep copies of all forms, schedules, and verification documents if you request an amended return or need access to that information for future tax years or financial institution requests.

How to File Your Idaho Tax Return for 2019 – Step-by-Step Instructions

Filing your 2019 Idaho tax return requires completing steps that ensure your details, income, deductions, and credits are correctly documented. Following this process closely helps prevent delays, incorrect balances, or rejected returns. Whether you are filing a joint return or individually, accuracy is key to determining whether you owe money or are eligible for a refund.

Step 1 – Collect Required Documents

Gather your complete federal return, including Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
Include all Forms W-2 and 1099 that report wages, interest, dividends, or unemployment.
Retrieve records of any estimated tax payments made during 2019.
Collect receipts or statements for deductions and tax credits.
Ensure you have accurate bank details for your checking account or financial institution if expecting a refund.

Step 2 – Fill Out Personal and Filing Information

Enter your full legal name, address, and Social Security number or ITIN.
Confirm that your filing status matches your federal return, whether single, head of household, or joint return.
If claiming dependents, ensure their complete information is entered accurately to avoid delays in processing.

Step 3 – Report Your Income and Adjustments

Transfer your federal adjusted gross income from Form 1040 to the Idaho return.
Report any business income or self-employment income and related deductions.
Include any other taxable income from Idaho sources, such as rental properties or retirement benefits.

Step 4 – Choose Your Deductions

Use the standard deduction unless your itemized deductions exceed the allowed amount.
For 2019, the standard deduction was $12,200 for single filers and $24,400 for jointly filing.
If itemizing from your itemized deductions total may lower your benefit, remember that Idaho requires state and local income taxes to be subtracted from the total deductions reported on your federal return.

Step 5 – Calculate Your Idaho Tax

Use the tax table for incomes under $100,000 or the tax rate schedule for higher income levels.
Factor in the $10 Permanent Building Fund tax if applicable.
Double-check calculations to avoid overpaying or underreporting your liability.

Step 6 – Apply Tax Credits

Claim the Idaho child tax credit, which provides $205 per qualifying child under 17.
Include the grocery tax credit of $100 per person, with an additional $20 for individuals 65 and older.
If you paid taxes to another state, complete the required form to claim a credit and avoid double taxation.

Step 7 – Determine Final Payment or Refund

Total your payments made during the year, including withholdings and estimated tax.
If your total payments exceed your liability, you may request a refund.
If you owe money, you must pay the balance by the original due date to avoid late penalties.
Check all refund or payment details, especially routing and account numbers, if expecting a direct deposit.

Completing your Idaho return requires time and attention, but each step ensures the return is processed smoothly. Submit only after verifying all numbers, forms, and supporting documents. The accuracy of your return directly affects whether you owe dollars to the state or are eligible to receive a refund.

How to File Electronically or by Mail

Once your Idaho tax return is complete, you can choose between electronic filing (e-filing) and mailing a paper return. Depending on your option, your return may take longer to process, and you may not get your refund as quickly as you would like, especially if you expect it to go directly into your checking account. Regardless of the method, make sure your documents are accurate, signed, and include all required information.

E-Filing Benefits and Guidelines

Electronic filing is often preferred due to faster turnaround times and fewer errors. If you choose to e-file, you can use a tax preparation service or authorized software provider. This method allows you to track your return, access confirmation of receipt, and receive your refund in less time than mailing.

E-filing is also more secure, providing encrypted transmission of your financial data. If you claim a refund, you must correctly enter your financial institution details to avoid delays. Make sure the information is complete and matches your records.

Mailing Your Idaho Return

If you mail your return, include all necessary forms in the correct order and send them to the Idaho State Tax Commission. Depending on whether you are using a standard postal service or a courier, use the designated P.O. Box or physical address. Always include your payment if you owe tax and retain a copy of everything you send.

Mailing may take additional time to process, so ensure your filing is submitted well before the deadline to avoid penalties or delays.

Making a Payment or Receiving a Refund

Once you have completed your Idaho tax return, your final step is either to make a payment for taxes owed or prepare to receive a refund. Choosing the proper method for each can affect how quickly your return is processed and how efficiently your money is handled. Here’s how the two main options compare:

Comparing Payment and Refund Methods

If You Owe Money:

E-Check or ACH Transfer: This method pulls the payment directly from your financial institution and is usually free of additional fees. It is secure and immediate, and ensures your balance is paid without mailing delays.
Credit/Debit Card: You can pay with a card, though most processors charge a convenience fee. This option is often used by taxpayers who want to earn rewards or need a few extra days to cover the amount owed.
Paper Check: Mail a check or money order to the Idaho State Tax Commission. On the memo line, include your full name, Social Security number, and tax year. Mailing a check takes longer and carries a slight risk of delay or misplacement.

If You're Expecting a Refund:

Direct Deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your refund. It will be sent to your checking account at your designated financial institution. Accurate routing and account numbers are essential for successful processing.
Paper Check: If you do not provide banking information, your refund will be mailed as a paper check. This method can take longer and is more susceptible to delivery delays or errors, especially if your address is incomplete or outdated.

Choosing direct deposit and online payment options can reduce processing time, improve accuracy, and minimize the chance of return or refund errors. Before you pay or request your refund, always double-check that your account numbers, payment totals, and form attachments are correct.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a small error on your Idaho tax return for 2019 can lead to serious consequences, from refund delays to additional tax bills. Knowing what to avoid can help ensure your return is accurate, timely, and complete. Below are several common mistakes that taxpayers often overlook—each one capable of disrupting the filing process.

One common mistake is selecting the wrong filing status: Your Idaho return must reflect the same status used on your federal return. For example, if you filed a joint return federally, you must do so at the state level. Choosing the wrong status can affect your tax owed, refund eligibility, and available deductions.
Another issue often arises when you forget to include your federal return. The Idaho State Tax Commission requires a full copy of your federal return with your state filing. Without it, your return may be rejected or placed on hold, which delays your refund status.
Incorrect or missing SSNs or ITINs can also trigger errors: Every taxpayer and dependent must be identified with complete, accurate numbers. Mistakes here can delay processing or misdirect your refund to the wrong individual.
Some filers forget to attach necessary schedules: If you claim credits, deductions, or additional adjustments, Forms 39R or 39NR are required. Omitting them can reduce the dollars you expect back or cause the state to request more information.
Lastly, do not overlook the $10 Permanent Building Fund Tax. This is a mandatory flat fee for most Idaho filers. Not paying it could result in a balance you still owe and an official notice requesting payment.

By avoiding these common filing errors, you reduce the chance of delays, protect your refund, and prevent unexpected follow-up from the state. After you've finished your return, you need to do one last thing. Let’s walk through the checklist to ensure everything is ready for submission.

Final Checklist Before You Submit

Before you send off your Idaho tax return for 2019, you must take a few extra minutes for a final review. Many filing errors occur not during form completion but at the submission stage. Overlooking something simple—like a missing document or incorrect payment detail—can delay your refund, lead to rejected filings, or result in notices from the Idaho State Tax Commission. A careful review ensures your filing is accurate, complete, and processed on time.

Here’s what you should verify before submission:

All required forms, including Form 40 or Form 43, are complete, signed, and attached correctly.
A full copy of your federal tax return is included; Idaho requires this to validate your income figures.
All W-2s and 1099s showing Idaho income and withholding are securely attached and readable.
Any additional forms or schedules, such as Form 39R or Form 39NR, are filled out correctly and included.
Your payment method—check, e-check authorization, or card confirmation—is enclosed or confirmed for any balance owed.
Your refund deposit details, including your checking account and routing numbers, are accurate and match your financial institution's records.
You used the correct mailing address in the form instructions and saved complete copies for your records.

Once everything is in order, electronic filing remains the fastest and most secure option. If you mail your return, consider using certified mail or a trackable delivery service. Doing so provides proof of timely submission and ensures that your payment or refund request reaches the state without issue.

With this checklist complete, you can confidently submit your return and finish your 2019 Idaho income tax responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I missed the 2019 filing deadline?

If you missed the April 15, 2020, deadline, you should still file your Idaho return immediately. Late returns can lead to penalties, interest charges, and delayed processing. If you are owed a current-year refund, it will not be released until your return is received. Filing now helps limit additional fees and protects your financial records for future tax years. Don’t wait—submit your return even if you missed the deadline.

Can I still get a refund for 2019 taxes?

You may still qualify for a current-year refund, but only if you filed by April 15, 2023, which marked the three-year statute of limitations. After this date, any refund becomes unavailable, even if you are entitled to one. Always visit trusted government sources for updated rules. If you missed the deadline, filing is still recommended to remain compliant and settle any outstanding balance you may owe the state.

How do I know if I need to include additional forms?

You must include additional forms, such as Form 39R or Form 39NR, if you claim subtractions, deductions, or tax credits. These schedules help Idaho correctly calculate your taxable income and refund. Read the instructions accompanying Form 40 or Form 43 to determine which forms are required for your filing situation. Visit official resources to confirm what documents apply, especially when handling more complex return information.

Where can I track my Idaho refund?

Although Idaho doesn’t offer a public tracking portal like the IRS, you can check your refund status by contacting the Idaho State Tax Commission directly. Have your filing confirmation or account details ready. This is especially important if you expect a direct deposit into your checking account. For current-year refund updates, a phone call or secure message may be the most reliable way to get refund information.

What if I need help completing my return?

If your tax situation is complicated or you’re unsure how to proceed, you can work with a licensed tax preparer who understands Idaho’s requirements. Free help is also available through certified volunteer assistance programs. These services often operate locally and specialize in state and federal filing support. To find legitimate options, visit usa.gov’s tax help page. Always verify that the person or group you work with is appropriately qualified.

Do I need to file even if I earned very little?

Possibly. If your income from Idaho sources was above $2,500 as a part-year resident or nonresident, you are likely required to file. Even part-time or temporary work may exceed the filing threshold. The same applies to residents with multiple income streams, even modest ones. Review the income guidelines based on your filing status and age to determine your obligations. Filing protects your refund and avoids compliance issues in the future.

Should I keep copies of my 2019 tax return?

Yes, it’s strongly recommended that you keep a complete copy of your 2019 federal and Idaho tax returns, including all W-2s, 1099s, and schedules. These documents may be needed if the state requests clarification or you amend your return later. Keeping them for at least three years ensures you can verify your refund request and respond to any audit or correspondence involving past-year filings or refund claims.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to File Your Idaho Income Tax Return for 2019