D.C. Launches Tax Amnesty; Program Waives All Penalties and Fees On Back Taxes Paid by September 30

$170 Million in Known Receivables Owed to District by Individuals and Businesses

WASHINGTON, July 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Delinquent taxpayers will get a rare opportunity to pay outstanding taxes and interest to the District of Columbia, have their penalties and fees waived, and avoid criminal prosecution. The DC Tax Amnesty program will run from August 2, 2010 through September 30, 2010, offering individuals and businesses the opportunity to satisfy their tax liabilities.

A special Web site, www.dctaxamnesty.com, has been established to help tax delinquents expedite payment and resolve their tax liabilities. Among the issues addressed are eligibility requirements, necessary documents plus the application form. Taxpayers can call the Office of Tax and Revenue at 202-727-4TAX (4829), email questions to [email protected], or visit the service center at 1101 4th Street, SW, Suite W270, between 8:15 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Known receivables of $170 million are owed to the District by 42,000 individuals and businesses. Sixty percent are located in the District with 40 percent outside, primarily in the Maryland and Virginia suburbs. The amnesty applies to all taxes administered by the Office of Tax and Revenue with the exception of real property-related taxes and the ball park fee. All periods covered by tax returns due prior to December 31, 2009 are eligible.

"This is a good chance for people who have taxes due to step up and do the right thing," said DC's Chief Financial Officer Natwar M. Gandhi. "We understand that people and businesses are going through tough times, so we are pleased to offer this opportunity for real savings for District taxpayers who have fallen behind with their tax obligations."

The District of Columbia is one of a number of jurisdictions implementing tax amnesty periods this year as governments nationwide seek ways to close budget gaps. A public awareness program is underway to reach the residents of the District, adjacent suburbs and across the country.

Note to editors and producers: During the campaign, statistics, updates and stories will be published periodically to the Media section of the Web site, www.dctaxamnesty.com.

Contact: Natalie Wilson

Work: (202) 442-8072

Cell: (202) 365-4799

[email protected]

David Umansky

Work: (202) 727-0058

Cell: (202) 641-6024

[email protected]

SOURCE Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Government of the District of Columbia