Question:

If the government sends me $73 rather than $29, can I keep the extra?
I forgot file my VA state income taxes and got a letter about it. So I filed last week and did all the bs tax forms and faxed it in where they told me to. Today I get a check in the mail for $73, but I only had on there that i had a $29 refund. Is it okay if I go ahead and cash the check? I mean really...they sent me a check, what else can I do?

Answers:

A-Best: If you filed your return claiming the smaller amount and they sent you the larger one, they might have recalculated the return and found that they owe you more - this is the most likely scenario. If it is their error and if you deposit the check and they find it later, they have means of getting it back from you.. So go ahead and have a good dinner with the excess!  

A: I can't speak for VA state income taxes, but you should probably receive a letter describing the "arithmetic errors" that lead to the increased refund. I'd cash the check, and (if you don't receive a letter), ask for clarification in time to send any amount you don't deserve back before April 15.  

A: If you received more than you were expecting they should follow up with a letter explaining the reason shortly. Hang on to the excess until you get that letter though, just in case they made a mistake themselves. It does happen sometimes.  

A: I would call the state and find out why. maybe you filled out your tax form incorrectly.  

A: Cash it and keep it but dont be surprised if they ask for it next year. If you hear anything from them "Oops, I didnt even notice"