Phoenix offers amnesty for delinquent taxes

The city of Phoenix will offer businesses a two-month tax amnesty opportunity, from April 15 to June 15, to submit delinquent taxes without a penalty. Also the interest rate charged for late taxes will be reduced from 6 percent to 3 percent during this time period.

"This will provide much-needed relief to our businesses who are struggling financially during these difficult economic times," said Mayor Phil Gordon. "It is a good opportunity to help them catch up on their delinquent payments to the city." 

Beginning July 1, the city plans to implement stricter tax enforcement policies that will strengthen the city's tax collection program. Currently, more than $5 million in delinquent taxes are due on returns that have been filed but not paid. Also, thousands of monthly tax returns have not been filed by businesses with active tax licenses. 

"We believe the amnesty program has the potential to bring many of these businesses in compliance with our tax laws and to increase tax collections by $2 million," said Councilmember Maria Baier, chair of the City Council Economy, Commerce and Sustainability Subcommittee. 

For more information, visit www.phoenix.gov.