The Regional Income Tax Authority (RITA) is a centralized tax agency that administers municipal income tax collection for cities and towns across Ohio (and some other states). If you live or work in a RITA-member municipality, this guide explains how it affects your taxes, payment options, and key deadlines.
What Is RITA?
RITA is a government-run tax bureau that handles local income tax processing for over 300 Ohio municipalities. Instead of each city managing its own taxes, RITA provides:
✅ Unified tax filing for multiple cities
✅ Online payment systems
✅ Customer service support
States Using RITA: Primarily Ohio, but similar systems exist in Pennsylvania and Indiana.
Who Needs to Pay RITA Taxes?
You must file with RITA if you:
- Live in a RITA-member city (even if you work elsewhere)
- Work in a RITA-member city (even if you live elsewhere)
- Own a business operating in a RITA jurisdiction
Example: If you live in Cleveland (non-RITA) but work in Parma (RITA), you’ll pay taxes to both cities.
2024 RITA Tax Rates & Deadlines
Tax Rates by City
RITA’s member cities set their own rates (typically 1–3%). Check your city’s exact rate:
🔗 RITA Tax Rate Lookup Tool
Key 2024 Deadlines
- April 15, 2024: Annual return due (for 2023 taxes)
- Quarterly estimated payments: Due April 15, June 15, September 15, January 15
How to Pay RITA Taxes
1. Online Payments
- Credit/Debit Card (2.5% fee)
- eCheck ($1.50 fee)
🔗 RITA Payment Portal
2. By Mail
Send checks to:
RITA
PO Box 470179
Broadview Heights, OH 44147
3. Phone Payments
Call 1-800-860-7482 (fee applies)
4. In-Person
Visit a local RITA office (check website for locations).
RITA Tax Forms & Filing Options
Required Forms
- Individual Taxpayers: Form RITA-37
- Businesses: Form RITA-100
Filing Methods
✔ E-File: Fastest option (free for simple returns)
✔ Paper Forms: Download from RITA Forms Library
✔ Tax Professional: CPA or RITA-certified preparer
Common RITA Tax Scenarios
1. Working in One City, Living in Another
- You’ll pay taxes to both cities (but may get a credit).
- Example: Work in Columbus (2.5%), live in Dublin (2.0%) → Pay 2.5% to Columbus, 0% to Dublin if credit applies.
2. Remote Work Rules
- If your employer withholds taxes for a RITA city but you work remotely, you may need to request a refund.
3. Business Tax Requirements
- Must file even with no profit (penalties apply for late filing).
Penalties for Late Filing or Non-Payment
- Late filing: 10% penalty + interest
- Late payment: 1.5% monthly interest
- Non-filing: Possible liens or wage garnishment
How to Contact RITA
- Phone: 1-800-860-7482
- Email: info@ritaohio.com
- Live Chat: Available on RITA’s website
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does RITA collect school district taxes?
A: No—only municipal income taxes.
Q: Can I appeal my RITA tax bill?
A: Yes, file a dispute within 60 days of assessment.
Q: What if I moved mid-year?
A: File a partial-year return for each city.
Q: Are retirees exempt?
A: Some cities exempt pension income—check local rules.
Final Tips for RITA Taxpayers
✔ Keep pay stubs to verify withholding
✔ File even if no tax is due (avoid penalties)
✔ Check for reciprocity credits if working across cities
Need help? Visit RITA’s official site for guides and tools.
Still have questions? Ask below!
