ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 8, 2007) - Working to ensure every Marylander is informed and prepared to meet this year's Tuesday, April 17, tax deadline, Comptroller Peter Franchot today offered a few helpful reminders for state taxpayers. The Comptroller stressed the timely and user-friendly iFile system, a free online service provided by the state.

"Our first order of business at the Comptroller's Office is to provide excellent customer service to the taxpayers of Maryland," said Comptroller Franchot. "I encourage everyone filing a Maryland tax return this year to use iFile, the state's free Internet filing system. It's safe. It's fast, and it's convenient. iFilers get immediate confirmation that their returns are accepted, which means that taxpayers getting a refund this year can expect it direct deposited within 48 hours."

Beginning in 2007, if you electronically file your 2006 state return by the April 17 deadline, have a balance due, and choose direct debit or credit card payment, you have until April 30 to pay the balance in full.

Additional helpful tips for making tax time easy include:

• Check, then re-check, bank account/routing numbers before submitting tax returns.
• If paper filing is a must, print clearly. Don't use pencil.
• Make sure to include all required forms and documents (e.g. W-2s), and don't forget to sign your paper return.
• Always use caution before obtaining refund anticipatory loans.

For more tax help or to check refund status, use the Comptroller's toll free phone line, 1-800 MD TAXES, or visit the Comptroller's Web site: www.marylandtaxes.com.

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Contact: Joseph Shapiro, 410-260-7305