News Release
February 4, 2002 - Columbus, Ohio
- Governor Extends Tax Deadlines For
U.S. Troops Overseas
Ohioans in Afghanistan Combat Zone to Get More Time for
Filing
COLUMBUS – Governor Bob Taft and Ohio Tax
Commissioner Thomas M. Zaino today announced Ohio will extend
state tax deadlines and waive some penalties to residents who
serve in the Afghanistan combat zone that are similar to tax
benefits and extensions available from the federal
government.
Americans serving in Afghanistan will receive federal tax
benefits and extensions because of President George Bush’s
designating that country a combat zone. “
Ohio does not have the exact same tax laws as the federal
government, but Ohio law does allow us to extend
consideration for these combat circumstances,” Zaino said.
As a result of the combat zone designation, Zaino said:
* Estimated income tax payments, income tax return payments
and income tax return filings will be extended for 180 days
beyond the period of service in a combat zone. If warranted,
that 180 days can be extended further to include time in
missing-in-action status, time in continuous hospitalization
outside the U.S. and up to five years of hospitalization
within the U.S. resulting from injuries received in a combat
zone.
* As Ohio Tax Commissioner he can and has waived all related
interest penalties, failure-to-pay penalties and
failure-to-file penalties otherwise due and/or for the
suspension period.
Persons who believe they qualify for these special combat
zone tax benefits and extensions are urged to get more
information at the Ohio Department of Taxation web site:
http://tax.ohio.gov/
Information may also be obtained by calling 1-800-282-1780
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.