Do I Have to Submit a Paper Copy When I e-File My Federal Taxes?

E-filing can simplify your yearly tax preparation task.

E-filing eliminates the need to fill out and mail in documents to the IRS. Alternatively, you will be able to enter data into a software program that will make calculations for you, and then all documents can be submitted securely and instantly to the IRS for processing.

Features

E-filing allows taxpayers to file returns without mailing in any tax forms. To sign the form electronically, you will create a four-digit PIN number. As of 2010, 37 states also allow tax forms to be submitted electronically.

Considerations

In 2009, the IRS allowed taxpayers to e-file free if their income totaled less than $57,000. E-filing can be completed entirely online or at a local tax preparation office.

Benefits

E-filing speeds up the tax filing process. If you are due a refund, you may get your money in about two weeks when you e-file. Also, e-filing insures that the IRS gets all of your information, since no documents can be lost in the mail.

References

• IRS: IRS E-file for Individual Taxpayers: File Taxes Online
• TurboTax: E-file: Income Tax Return Electronic Filing
• Missouri Department of Revenue: Personal Tax Electronic Filing