Toll-free numbers available to assist

Minnesotans who live outside the metro area and have questions about their state taxes can call the Minnesota Department of Revenue toll-free.

The toll-free service is an overall effort by the department to enhance services to state tax payers. Toll-free numbers have been added for a whole array of tax services, including individual income, sales and withholding taxes.

"I've heard from Greater Minnesota residents and legislators about the importance of toll-free telephone assistance," said Commissioner Ward Einess. "We agree that this will provide better access to the department and help taxpayers get their questions answered."

The toll-free telephone numbers in service:

Individual Taxpayer Self Service 800-657-3676;

Individual Taxpayer Assistance 800-652-9094;

Collection Assistance 800-657-3909;

Sales Tax Assistance 800-657-3777; and

Withholding Assistance 800-657-3594.

Taxpayers are encouraged to utilize the above referenced toll-free lines or to log on to the Web site at www.taxes.state.mn.us . Calls placed in the metro area will reroute the caller to the local number, thereby reducing unnecessary usage of toll-free charges.

"I am particularly pleased that the department has the toll-free numbers up and running at a time when most people are thinking of preparing their taxes," said Einess. Individual income taxes must be filed by April 17.