Why Arizona Taxpayers Are Being Told to Wait This Filing Season

Like me, you probably just got your W-2 from your employer. Filing taxes can be a headache, so it's something I like to take care of sooner rather than later. If you're ready to cross this task off your list, you might want to pump the brakes a little this year.

Arizona’s tax season is off to a bumpy start, and right now, taxpayers are getting mixed messages about whether to file now or wait a little while. Arizona's lawmakers are wrestling with the governor over how the state should match recent IRS federal tax changes, and that uncertainty is trickling down to us — Arizona's state taxpayers.

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A Political Tug‑Of‑War At The Capitol

So, why are we being told to wait? It comes down to an ongoing fight between Governor Katie Hobbs and the Republican‑controlled Legislature over “tax conformity”.

The standoff centers on how closely Arizona should follow federal tax rules. Conservative lawmakers want full alignment with the federal cuts, while Hobbs supports a more limited approach.

Governor Hobbs is up for re-election this fall, and this disagreement has turned into a flashpoint. Both sides are accusing the other of creating confusion for taxpayers.

READ: Why Are People Leaving Arizona For Other Western States?

So, Should You Wait To File Your Taxes in Arizona?

There's no clear answer on this, yet. Experts say: it depends. The Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) says there’s no need to delay your filing. The state always releases tax forms before lawmakers finalize conformity, and this year's forms are already aligned with federal law, per Katie Hobbs’ executive order.

You should always consult your tax professional for your specific circumstances. However, some tax professionals are urging caution. If your return is more complex, you might want to wait a few weeks.

During a recent Senate hearing, ADOR acknowledged that roughly a million Arizonans might have to amend their returns if lawmakers make changes after we file our taxes. Experts say that could cost our state about $20 million to process if that happens.

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Bottom Line For Arizona Tax Filers

Again, each situation may be a little different, so check in with a professional if you have questions.  If your taxes are simple, you should be okay to file now.

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If you submit an itemized return or have a more complex filing situation, you might want to wait a bit; it could save you a headache later. With all of the political back‑and‑forth still developing, waiting and a little patience could go a long way.