By RYAN SKAITH
The Missouri Department of Revenue has officially begun accepting electronically filed state tax returns for the 2025 tax year.
As the season kicks off, officials are providing resources to help taxpayers navigate the process efficiently and avoid common pitfalls associated with traditional filing methods.
Missouri Director of Revenue Trish Vincent strongly recommends electronic filing to ensure the fastest processing times. She issued a specific warning for those planning to mail their returns: relying on a post office drop box for a same-day postmark is no longer a guarantee. Due to recent changes in the postal system, mail deposited in a slot may not be processed until the following day. To avoid issues with time-sensitive documents, taxpayers should review current U.S. Postal Service rules regarding postmarking.
Chief Tax Officer with Jackson Hewitt Tax Services, Mark Steber, says filing taxes can be daunting, but a simple way to get organized is to collect all your documents in one place. “It doesn’t have to be elaborate. A large envelope or a shoe box works. That’s a simple way to get started to having a complete and accurate tax return.”
Beyond avoiding mailing delays, e-filing is recognized as a more accurate and secure method for submitting tax data. The DOR encourages citizens to combine electronic filing with the direct deposit option to further accelerate the refund process. Generally, those who file electronically receive their money significantly faster than those who submit paper forms.
Many Missourians may be eligible to file both their federal and state returns at no cost. Through the Free File Alliance, eligible taxpayers can access approved software to complete their taxes for free. Detailed information on these programs can be found on the IRS Free File website or the DOR’s Online Filing resource page.
Steber says about 100-million people are expected to receive a tax refund.
The deadline to file 2025 individual income tax return is April 15, 2026.