Question: I filed my tax in late March this year and still have not received my refund. Could you let me know what is the normal processing time for a state tax refund and what phone number should I call for the status of my refund?
Answer: Kokua Line has received several complaints about tardy state income tax refunds, but your wait takes the cake.
The state Department of Taxation advises taxpayers to call about the status of their refund if it’s been more than 10 weeks since they filed their return, or 12 weeks if they opted for a refund by paper check (as opposed to electronic deposit). It’s been at least 23 weeks since you filed, by your account.
Call 587-4242 or toll free at 1-800-222-3229 and follow the voice prompts.
Taxpayers also may check the status of their income tax refund online, but be forewarned that doing so will require you to input your whole Social Security Number and the exact refund amount you are due.
Many readers have balked at inputting their whole Social Security Number for security reasons, and opted to call even though they assumed they’d be left on hold for a time (and they were).
If you’d like to check online, the address is 808ne.ws/chkrfnd.
Speaking of taxes …
Volunteers needed
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide needs more volunteers to help people prepare their income taxes this upcoming tax season. Nearly 13,000 Hawaii residents relied on the free service last season, which helps people, especially those over 50, who can’t afford a tax-preparation service. AARP trains the volunteers, who don’t need to be accountants, over 50 or members of the advocacy group.
“There is need for volunteer tax preparers, client facilitators, those who can provide technical and management assistance and interpreters. Every level of experience is welcome,” according to an AARP news release. Computer proficiency is helpful, but not required; bilingual or multilingual volunteers are especially needed. To learn more, click here or call 1-888-687-2277 and follow the voice prompts.
Last tax season, Tax-Aide was available at about 30 sites in Hawaii, including public libraries and senior centers. Volunteers who help prepare taxes complete training and IRS certification before they begin; other volunteer roles require less expertise.
“They don’t have to be accountants. We provide the training and they will initially help with intake and if they are so inclined they can get more training and take on other duties in the following years. We are just looking for people who want to help others,” said Craig Gima, a spokesman for AARP Hawaii.
Q: Does UH know how many “Dreamers” go there?
A: Yes. Thirteen members of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program enrolled for the fall semester at the University of Hawaii’s 10 campuses, according to the university administration. They and other undocumented students are eligible for resident tuition rates.
Auwe
Auwe to the person who hit my Mom’s car bumper at Hawaiian Eye Center Wahiawa on Aug. 31 and didn’t let anyone know. I had a bad day helping my handicapped brother with his appointment and to have this also was very disappointing. Hopefully you will come forward so my elderly mom won’t have to pay for your mistake. Show some aloha. — Karma
Mahalo
Mahalo to the people who helped my mom when she fell on the street. Several men lifted her to the sidewalk area to prevent cars in that lane from causing an accident. Mahalo to the people who picked up her eyeglasses and hearing aids. She appreciates your help very much. — Family of a senior citizen
Write to Kokua Line at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
