File Individual State Income Taxes

People who have earned income in Georgia must file state income taxes.

Georgia individual income tax is based on your federal adjusted gross income (your income before taxes), adjustments that are required by Georgia law, and your filing requirements.

You must file taxes with the State of Georgia if:

• You are required to file a federal income tax return.
• You have income subject to Georgia income tax but not subject to federal income tax.
• Your income exceeds Georgia’s standard deduction and personal exemptions.

Typically, income tax returns and payments are due April 15, unless you file an extension or the deadline is extended by the governor.

The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) administers tax laws.

How Do I … File Individual State Income Taxes?

Get Prepared

Complete your federal tax return before beginning your state tax return. Your federal tax return contains important information that you’ll need to file your state taxes.

Gather What You'll Need

• Federal tax return
• Social security number or tax ID number
• Forms W-2 or 1099 for all jobs worked during the year
• Additional forms, if your situation requires it. Common tax forms are available on the Georgia Department of Revenue website. A full list of necessary forms for special circumstances is available in the Georgia DOR Individual Income Tax Booklet.

Pay Your Taxes

You can file state income tax electronically (through a tax vendor or directly with DOR), on paper, or hire someone to file your taxes for you. It is easiest to file your state taxes using the same method you used to file your federal taxes.

• File taxes electronically through a tax vendor

• You can file your taxes electronically using a tax software vendor approved by the State of Georgia.
• Verify that all your information is correct before submitting.
• You will likely be charged a fee to file your taxes through a tax vendor. Depending on your situation, you may qualify to file your state income taxes for free.

• Fill out and submit a Form 500 Individual Income Tax Return.
• Follow all instructions to complete the form and be sure to verify that all your information is correct before submitting.
• You can submit payments and access documents online using the Georgia Tax Center.

• Filing electronically is the fastest method to file and receive a refund, if you are owed one. However, you can file using paper forms.
• Fill out and submit a paper Form 500 Individual Income Tax Return. Mailing address for state individual income tax forms.
• Follow all instructions to complete the form and be sure to verify that all your information is correct before submitting.

• Find a certified tax preparer near you. Be sure to verify that your tax professional has proper credentials in the State of Georgia.
• Provide your tax preparer with all the necessary information and documents.

Next Steps

If you are due a refund, it can take up to 90 days from the time you file to receive it. You can track your tax refund online or contact the Georgia Department of Revenue’s Taxpayer Services Division.

• Get Prepared
• Gather What You'll Need
• Pay Your Taxes
• Next Steps