The Maryland comptroller’s office, which collects state taxes, has announced that it will stop processing tax forms that are filed by paper on April 15 to protect workers from the spread of COVID-19.

In a statement, Comptroller Peter V.R. Franchot (D) urged taxpayers who plan to file paper income tax returns to make sure those returns are postmarked by April 10 to ensure processing. Tax returns can still be filed electronically.

“We want to make sure every Marylander due a refund gets it as soon as possible, especially during this economic crisis,” Franchot said. “We are taking this step to balance that goal with our commitment to protecting the health of our dedicated team processing those paper returns. Mailing your paper income tax return by April 10th will help ensure timely processing.”

Most taxpayers receiving refunds have already filed and the number of those anticipating refunds who have yet to do so and plan to file via paper returns is very low, the comptroller’s office said. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the deadline for individuals and businesses to file and pay their state income tax has been extended from April 15 until July 15. The same is true for federal tax filers.

The decision to temporarily stop processing paper returns after April 15 will further reduce the staff required to work on site, the comptroller’s office said. The electronic filing process requires minimal human intervention, and is a cost-effective and more secure way to submit taxes at a time when tax fraud and identity theft schemes are on the rise across the nation.

The agency said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and could alter the schedule if necessary.

The comptroller’s website is https://www.marylandtaxes.gov/

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