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All monthly filers are required to file and pay electronically
Beginning with the July 2009 return due on August 25, all monthly filers must file and pay their excise taxes electronically.
This change is the result of SSB5571 (pdf) passed by the 2009 Legislature. The bill also says businesses with extenuating circumstances may request a waiver.
How do I file my taxes electronically?
To file your return using E-file, you must first create an online account. You will need your Tax Registration Number and Pre-Assigned Access Code (PAC).
No more paper returns
Once you register for E-file, you will no longer receive paper returns, tax rate flyers or other publications in the mail.
Get electronic reminders
You can sign up for electronic due date reminders and sales tax rate changes during the registration process. Those notices will go to the e-mail address you enter when you create your account.
If you already have an account and you are not receiving electronic reminders, sign up on our ListServ page.
How do I pay my taxes electronically?
Paying taxes electronically is the last step of the E-file process. You will find your payment options on the E-file Summary & Payment page. If you are currently required to pay through electronic funds transfer (EFT), no other options will be available.
Below is a description of each option:
- Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
You must register to use EFT. Allow three days for the registration to be processed.
- EFT Debit: You authorize the Department’s bank to withdraw the amount you owe from your bank account on the date you select. This happens automatically when you submit your return.
- EFT Credit: You authorize your bank to send funds to the Department’s account. You must initiate this payment each month.
- E-check
You enter your bank account number and routing information to make a one-time payment. US Bank charges you a one dollar fee for each transaction.
- Credit Card
You enter your credit card information to make a one-time payment. You can use Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. A 2.5% fee is charged by a non-state vendor for this service.
Benefits of using E-File
Nearly 100,000 Washington businesses have already discovered the benefits of using E-file. Whether you’re a small business or a CPA who handles multiple accounts, E-file offers several advantages over traditional paper filing.
Benefits of E-file include:
- 24/7 access to your tax return and payment system
- instantaneous delivery of your return with confirmation
- automatic error checking
- ability to customize your return to include only the classifications you need
- four payment options: EFT Debit, EFT Credit, E-check, and credit card
- ability to import data from software programs
The state also benefits from reduced processing time and fewer tax returns with errors.
If you can’t file and pay electronically
You may request a waiver.
SSB 5571 lists reasons why a waiver may be granted, including:
- You do not have a computer.
- You do not have access to the internet using your own computer.
- You do not have a bank account or a credit card.
- Your bank is unable to send or receive electronic funds transfer transactions.
Send a written request with explanation to:
Electronic Filing and Payment Team
Department of Revenue
PO Box 47476
Olympia, WA 98504-7476
For help, call 1-877-345-3353.