Contact:
Meredith Helgerson, Communications Officer 608-261-2271
MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Revenue will begin sending letters
to Wisconsin businesses encouraging them to electronically file their
Wisconsin sales and use tax returns. The Department’s goal is to have all
Wisconsin businesses e-filing by June, 2007. Ever since the ability to file
Wisconsin sales tax returns electronically was introduced in 1999, more and
more merchants are choosing the convenience of e-filing sales tax payments
on-line versus the old fashioned paper method. The Department receives
over 900,000 sales tax returns annually and currently 57% are still filed on
paper.
Electronic filing is more accurate because a computer does the arithmetic
and eliminates errors. Businesses can be sure the return was received by
the Department of Revenue and a file is kept. Plus, fewer return
adjustments are made on e-filed returns, so interest payments can be
avoided.
There are three ways a business can e-file their sales tax returns:
* Sales Internet Process (SIP): a free internet filing application.
A business can make a tax payment electronically or by check or money order.
* XML File Transmission: sales tax returns can be reported securely
via the internet with authorized vendor software or converting your file to
XML format.
* Telefile: Any touch-tone phone will do. Dial (608)261-5340 in
Madison or (414)227-3895 in Milwaukee.
If e-filing imposes an undue hardship on a business, a hardship waiver may
be requested. Further information can be found on the Department of
Revenue’s website at www.dor.state.wi.us or by calling (608)261-6261.
