Taxes FAQ

Why e-file your tax return?
Well, it's easier, faster and has less risk. It can often be cheaper too. Why is that?

It's easier because these programs very often have templates you can simply fill-in. E-file returns have a 1% error rate, while paper returns have a 20% error rate.

It's faster because your return travels electronically; meaning only slightly slower than the speed of light. Your return is being processed faster too because it is much easier to check calculations electronically than on paper. E-file returns are promised in 18 to 28 days. In many cases returns come through faster. A direct deposit to your bank account can take even less time. You might be amazed.

It has less risk of being lost. And the internet is secure. You may hear news items of hackers breaking into secure sites, but these news stories are less frequent even as the internet grows larger and larger.

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It's often cheaper simply because there is less cost involved. You are not paying an hourly wage to complete your return. A number of companies offer free downloads of software and then you do your taxes for a very low fee.

What if I make a mistake on my e-filed tax return?
You must file an amended return on paper (Form 1040X, the Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) and mail this to your servicing center for processing. You may submit the form once your original return has processed.

Is there any software that is approved by the IRS?
The IRS does not endorse any particular software. It does provide a list of online filing software companies. There are also authorized IRS e-file providers. In addition, the IRS's Freefile service links to companies that will file your form for free (if you qualify).

Can we file a joint tax return electronically?
Yes you can. Filing your return electronically will be faster, safer and more accurate than mailing your tax return. This is recommended by the IRS because information is transmitted over telephone lines directly to their computer network.