The IRS began accepting electronic
returns for tax year 2005 on January 13, 2006.
Individual filers are also encouraged to check into
Free File.
More and more Americans are choosing
e-file, which lets them electronically file an accurate
tax return or get an extension of time to file without
sending any paper to the Internal Revenue Service.
In fact, more than 68 million
Americans chose IRS e-file in 2005 — 11 percent
more than the year before. The total number of
individual tax returns in calendar year 2006 is expected
to grow to nearly 135 million, and the IRS expects a
record number of e-filers this year. “We expect e-file
will continue to grow this year,” said IRS Commissioner
Mark Everson. "We remind taxpayers that e-filing is
fast, secure and reliable.”
Filing Your Taxes Was Never Easier
How to e-file. It's as easy as 1-2-3 !
e-file Filing Options
The IRS e-file program offers quick, easy, and
accurate alternatives to paper returns.
Important Reminder - TeleFile Has Been
Discontinued
The IRS ended its TeleFile program August 16, 2005.
TeleFile allowed taxpayers to file certain forms by
telephone. Previous 1040 TeleFilers are encouraged to
explore other e-file options such as
Free File or using the services of one of our
IRS e-file partners.
Forms W-2 Are Required
When filing electronically taxpayers must provide Forms
W-2, W-2G, and 1099-R to the Authorized IRS e-file
Provider before the Provider sends the electronic return
to the IRS.
Free File
Services
Determine eligibility and/or access free services being
offered by the Free File Alliance. Free File is your
link to free online filing.
Electronic Payment Options
Electronic payment options are convenient, safe and
secure methods for paying income taxes. If you have a
balance due, you can e-file and pay in a single step by
authorizing an electronic funds withdrawal from your
bank account. Another option is to pay by credit card.
The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) offers
a third option for paying federal taxes. Through EFTPS,
you can schedule recurring payments for withdrawal from
your bank account.
Authorized IRS e-file Providers
Locate the closest Authorized e-file Provider in your
area where you can electronically file your tax return.
e-file Partners for Individual Taxpayers
IRS has partnered with various private industry
companies that offer affordable, convenient,
user-friendly e-file and electronic payment
options, as well as a variety of other services, to
assist the individual taxpayer.
e-file for Businesses and Self-Employed Individuals
Whether you're a business, big or small, or are
self-employed you'll find an e-file for
Business filing option that meets your needs. IRS
e-file is available for Employment Taxes and
Information Returns as well as returns for Partnerships
and Estates and Trusts.
e-file Checklist
Over-the-counter software packages and those available
through Free File are basically alike. They ask
questions and based on your answers, before you know it,
your tax return is complete. Whether you use purchased
software or Free File, you'll need to get all your
tax-related documents together. Don't be overwhelmed,
this list will help you get prepared. However, depending
on the type of return you file, it may not be
all-inclusive.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Puzzled by the tax law or which credits and deductions
to take? Need assistance with your tax return? You may
want to visit a volunteer site. The IRS Volunteer Income
Tax Assistance (VITA) Program or the Tax Counseling for
the Elderly (TCE) Program offer free tax help if you
qualify.
Federal/State e-file
IRS e-file For Taxpayers Federal/State
e-file
Where's My Refund?
You filed your tax return and you're expecting a refund.
You have just one question and you want the answer now -
Where's My Refund?
e-file Frequently Asked Questions for Individual
Taxpayers
Extension of Time To File (Form 4868)
Need more time to prepare your federal tax return? This
page will direct you to information on how to apply for
an extension of time to file.
