How to File Income Tax Online

The IRS encourages all taxpayers to file their income tax forms online. With online preparation, the number of calculation errors drop to almost nothing if you use tax preparation software instead of doing calculations with paper and pencil.

Things You'll Need

• 1099 forms
• W-2 forms

Instructions

1. Determine whether you qualify for the IRS Free File service. To qualify, your annual income must be below $52,000.

2. Access Free File through the IRS website (see Resources below).

3. Choose one of the IRS e-file Partners if you do not qualify for Free File. Make sure that your choice offers filing for your state.

4. Follow through with completing your return through Free File if your income exceeds the limit. You will be charged a fee.

5. Complete the online worksheets used by your particular tax preparer. Check that your numbers match those on your W-2 and 1099 forms. The company preparing your taxes will complete all calculations and prepare a finished tax return, usually a Form 1040 if you are filing as an individual or jointly with your spouse.

6. Review your finished tax return before approving it. While you can file an amended tax return if you discover an error later, it's better to catch it now if you can.

7. Contact your local IRS office if you do not receive your refund within 28 days. You can also go online to the IRS website for help.

8. Get technical help by sending email to [e-mail]. Contact this email address for help getting around the site and solving filing issues.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch out for state-return issues. Some online tax filers do not file income tax returns in every state. Many tax preparers charge separately to file federal and state tax returns.

Resources

• IRS Free File at IRS.gov
• IRS e-file partners at IRS.gov