Revenue Department extends amnesty to delinquent taxpayers
July 10, 1998
For the 5 percent of Wisconsin taxpayers who don't pay their taxes,
the Tax Amnesty program, administered by the Wisconsin Department of
Revenue (DOR), is a way to start fresh. Between Monday, June 15, and
Friday, Aug. 14, anyone owing Wisconsin back taxes may pay them at a
reduced cost through the Wisconsin Tax Amnesty Program, which is
temporary. To participate, you must apply no later than Aug. 14.
There are currently 110,000 delinquent tax accounts in Wisconsin,
representing $150 million in uncollected state taxes. The Legislative
Fiscal Bureau estimates that Tax Amnesty will raise $40 million. Those
who don't take advantage of Tax Amnesty will face even tougher tax
enforcement laws. After Aug. 14, an additional 5 percent fee will be
applied and professional and occupational licenses could be revoked.
Most types of taxes qualify for amnesty, including individual income
tax; sales and use tax (but not local option taxes, such as the county
sales tax); corporate franchise and income tax; employer withholding
tax; cigarette and tobacco products tax; alcohol beverage tax; fuel tax;
inheritance and estate tax; and fiduciary income tax.
If your delinquent tax account existed as of Oct. 1, 1997, the past
due balance of your account as of June 15, 1998, will be reduced by 20
percent. If your delinquent tax account arose after Oct. 1, 1997, you
will receive a reduction in interest charges from 18 to 12 percent.
There are three ways to apply for the Tax Amnesty program:
1. Call the DOR toll-free at 1-888-701-8818;
2. Apply through the department's secure Web site at ; or
3. Pick up an application form at a local DOR office.
A $200 down payment must accompany your amnesty application, and all
required tax returns must be filed before amnesty will be granted. The
remaining amount of your reduced tax payment must be paid within 45 days
of notification from the DOR.
