Filing Electronically

You can go paperless at tax time with electronic filing.

In the past several years, the IRS has spent a great deal of time and money in promoting its "e-file" paperless tax return. According to the IRS, using e-file can allow you to receive your refund in about half the time required to process a refund from a traditonal return. And in many states, you can file your state income tax return along with your federal return using e-file.

In its early stages of development, taxpayers who wanted to file their returns electronically had to use a tax preparer who was authorized by the IRS to use the e-file program. Today, however, in addition to filing through a tax professional, you may be able to e-file your tax return from your home computer, if you purchase a tax preparation program that is compatible with the IRS system. You can even authorize the IRS to debit your bank account for any additional taxes you owe on a date you determine, but no later than April 15th.

You may also be able to file your return using a touch tone telephone. However, this option is only available for taxpayers who have very simple returns.

For more information about filing your tax return electronically, you should visit the IRS website.