Tax refunds higher in County

RITZVILLE – Adams County residents have the highest average federal tax refund of any of the other counties in the state.

The finding is according to research by SmartAsset, a consumer-focused financial information and advice firm.

According to the research, 6,830 residents are eligible to receive a federal tax refund. The refund amount is an average of $3,472. Conversely an estimated 1,580 county residents owe the federal government taxes. The average amount owed is $4,223.

Some tax payers like the involuntary savings program created by excess withholding, and the windfall refund received each year. However, most financial experts say to adjust your tax withholding rate, to put more money in your pocket each month, and avoid making an interest free loan to the government during the year.

Rounding out the top five counties with the highest tax refunds are San Juan, King, Yakima and Franklin counties.

Neighboring Lincoln County comes in at No. 9, while Grant County is No. 10.