Gregoire asks Revenue to grant filing extensions

Governor Chris Gregoire has asked the Washington State Department of Revenue to grant tax return filing extensions to Washington businesses affected by flooding this week.

“We recognize that this disastrous flooding will affect the ability of some firms doing business in Washington to file their state excise tax returns in a timely manner,” Gregoire said. “Therefore, I have asked the Department to grant filing extensions to these firms, and to waive penalties for firms that are unable to file on time.”

Revenue Director Cindi Holmstrom said she has directed her staff to implement the Governor’s request. She said the Department also will postpone any scheduled audits of businesses affected by the floods.

“We recognize the difficulties these businesses will be facing in the coming weeks and months, and we don’t want to add to those burdens,” Holmstrom said.

Businesses can call the Department at 1-800-647-7706 to request an extension or waiver.