LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is issuing a notification to Arkansans that the deadline for filing state individual income tax has been extended until May 17, 2021 to coincide with the extended federal deadline.

“This year, the date might have changed, but the responsibility remains – tax time has arrived,” said Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “We have dealt with tough situations, heartache, and a difficult year, but I want Arkansans to know their options when safely filing their taxes.”

Attorney General Rutledge has provided these tips for Arkansans still working on filing their federal and state taxes this year:

• Compare the prices and fees of multiple preparers. Prices can vary significantly.

• Check the qualifications and reputation of the person handling your personal information. You are responsible for the information submitted to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

• Make sure the preparer has a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) from the IRS.

• Make sure that your tax return shows your address and that your refund is direct-deposited into YOUR bank account.  Be wary of a tax return preparer who insists that you use his or her address and bank account.  You may not get all that you are entitled to receive.

• AARP Foundation Tax Aide program offers free assistance to Arkansas seniors filing their taxes online or by calling 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277).

• Tax help is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week on IRS.gov.

• Visit the IRS website to see if you qualify for free federal tax filing preparation.

• Information for filing state taxes can be found online on dfa.arkansas.gov/income-tax or by calling (501) 682-1100.

Governor Hutchinson issued a proclamation to announce that he had signed Executive Order 21-06, which grants the extension for filing an Arkansas tax return or payment until May 17, 2021. The proclamation can be viewed here.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at (800) 482-8982 or [email protected] or visit ArkansasAG.gov.