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Step 1
Take a tax program for a test run. One of the best ways to start feeling more comfortable about doing your taxes electronically is to really dig into the programs available. They usually have FAQ's about safety and security issues which may help alleviate some of your fears.
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Step 2
Check out some reviews. The start of tax season brings a plethora of news articles and user reviews of the programs currently available. You can see what aspects of the most popular and trusted programs other people like or dislike.
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Step 3
Talk to your friends and family. With almost half the country e-filing, odds are you already know someone who has e-filed and their opinion might make you feel better. Don't forget about your local tax office. Many tax offices use a version of tax software not unlike what is available to the individual. Ask them if they have many problems, if they have found that e-filing raises the risk of being audited and if they ever get complaints.
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Step 4
Check out your computer system. Make sure you are running a machine that is clean from viruses and Trojans and that your anti-virus and firewall programs are up to date. Keeping your information safe from prying eyes is the responsibility of the software company and the individual.
