COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Officials say the number of Ohioans paying state taxes by credit card rose nearly 50 percent in three years.
The Ohio Department of Taxation calls the plastic option a convenience, but consumer groups say the increased use is a concern.
The department reports 18,520 residents charged their Ohio taxes for 2008, up from 12,450 who did so with their 2005 taxes. The numbers rose even as fewer Ohioans owed money after withholding.
Consumer groups warn that paying taxes with plastic can trigger interest costs. And, Kathy Virgallito of Consumer Credit Counseling in Columbus says more people charging their taxes may be a sign more are having trouble making ends meet.
The tax department says taxpayers need to evaluate whether the option is best for them.
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