Individuals have until May 17 to complete taxes

Individual taxpayers were given a reprieve this spring to finish their tax returns.

The deadline for these people was extended from April 15 to May 17 to give them extra time amid the pandemic. There have also been reported delays in getting out tax refund checks.

So far, just over 2.5 million residents have filed their taxes, and an estimated three million will file for 2020, according to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

"This year, like last year, has been a difficult one," noted Secretary Peter Barca, in a statement. "I'm pleased we are able to better accommodate the needs of Wisconsin's taxpayers both with the extended filing deadline and extended customer service call center hours. The additional time is one small way we can assist our customers during this pandemic."

E-filing is free in Wisconsin, or taxpayers may choose to file their taxes through an accountant or third-party software (such as TurboTax or H&R Block, for example). E-filing also allows for direct deposit of refunds or withdrawal from a bank account for tax payments.

For more information, call the DOR’s individual customer service line at 608-266-2486. Call center hours will be extended from 7:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. May 11 and May 13. Regular hours are 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 Further details and resources are posted at www.revenue.wi.gov.