BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Delinquent taxpayers in Louisiana have one last shot to pay what they owe with lessened penalties and interest charges.
The state revenue department announced Monday that Louisiana's latest tax amnesty period begins Nov. 16 and runs through Dec. 15. It's the third year in a row the state is offering amnesty to those who haven't paid what they owe, and it's the last amnesty allowed for a decade.
State lawmakers authorized the three annual amnesty periods in 2013 to help drum up money for the state's budget amid years of financial troubles. The goal of this year's 30-day amnesty period for people and businesses with delinquent accounts is to raise $50 million.
Those who agree to settle their back-owed tax debts with the state will have to pay the full amount of delinquent taxes, 83 percent of the interest and 67 percent of the penalties due. Six-month installment plans are available.
"This will be the final amnesty program offered by the state for at least 10 years. That is why it is so important for delinquent taxpayers to take advantage of this opportunity to make a fresh start with their taxes," Revenue Secretary Tim Barfield said in a statement.
Once the amnesty period begins, people can apply at www.ldrtaxamnesty.com or by calling 1-866-782-9241. Eligible taxpayers should receive a letter from the revenue department with instructions for submitting applications.
Taxpayers who are involved in criminal investigations or criminal litigation for state tax issues don't qualify for amnesty.
After this latest amnesty period, lawmakers have prohibited offering such a program until 2025.