This is my first time filing a tax return. Can I receive my refund via direct deposit?


The Department has responded to increasing occurrences of tax fraud by implementing enhanced security measures to protect Louisiana taxpayers. This means that if this is your first time filing a tax return, you cannot receive a direct deposit of your refund. Your refund will be sent by paper check. The expected processing time for returns filed electronically is up to 4 weeks. For paper returns, taxpayers should expect to wait as long as 8 weeks.

Filing Dates


News & Announcements

May 14, 2025

Tax preparer arrested for gambling-related tax fraud scheme

A Louisiana tax preparer faces felony charges over an alleged scheme to steal tens of thousands of dollars in fraudulent income tax refunds.

May 12, 2025

Louisiana state income tax deadline is May 15

The deadline for 2024 Louisiana state income tax is Thursday, May 15.

January 29, 2025

Louisiana state income tax filing begins Wednesday, Jan. 29

Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR) will begin accepting 2024 state individual income tax returns on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025.


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