We fully understand that this charge with a label like “comp of maryland dir db rad” sounds all too confusing. But, there is always some explanation behind it, and that is why we’re here today. Let’s just go over the details here to answer all your genuine questions regarding this credit card charge.
What Does This Charge Mean?
That long phrase stands for a tax payment processed by the Comptroller of Maryland. Here’s what it really means:
- COMP OF MARYLAND = Comptroller of Maryland
- DIR DB = Direct Debit (meaning the money was pulled automatically)
- RAD = An internal code used by the tax department
So, in short, this is just a label for an automated tax payment made through Maryland’s official tax system.
How It Works: ACH Debit Explained
The charge will appear as a result of the fact that you employed ACH (Automated Clearing House) to pay your Maryland state taxes. This approach gives the state the ability to take funds out of your bank account directly, no checks, no waiting time. Whether you filed taxes online or made scheduled payments, you authorized the debit.
When You’ll See This
Typically, such a fee becomes known in the following cases:
- You are transferring your state taxes to the online platform as a payment method
- You have implemented recurring estimated tax payments
- A prior overpayment or balance due has been adjusted by the state
In the event of direct e-filing with the state of Maryland, the withdrawal is a necessary stage of the process.
How To Check If It’s Legit
Besides, seeing whether the details of the charge match the ones in any email or receipt you received from Maryland’s tax system can assist you in confirming if there is a charge made without authorization.
To be sure:
- Access the Comptroller’s official portal: https://interactive.marylandtaxes.gov/Individuals
- Sign up and verify your payment history.
- Once the withdrawal is reflected, you can be sure that everything is in order over there.
What If You Don’t Recognize the Charge?
If you have never done any tax work in Maryland or did not give permission for the ACH direct deposit, the case may be that you are a victim of fraud. Often, fraudsters use fake names similar to those of government representatives.
First of all, act as follows right away:
- Get in touch with your bank and notify them that there was an unauthorized charge
- Call the Comptroller’s office right away to double-check that they are the people who took out the money
What To Do If It Was a Mistake
For those instances where the charge was not supposed to have been made, the bank can help you report a dispute under the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. Simultaneously, refer to the Comptroller’s office and give them your transaction details in order to know what has caused the charge. In case of necessity, they can also assist you to get a refund.
How to Avoid Such Scenarios from Happening To You Again
So as not to experience any unwanted withdrawals:
- Always keep a record of the ACH permissions you give online
- In case you have switched banks or do not want automatic payments anymore, please change or delete your settings on the tax portal: https://interactive.marylandtaxes.gov/Individuals
- If you like, there is still an option to pay by credit card (a small fee is charged) or send a check by mail for manual payments.
