How does efile taxes work

Here's the basic process:. Once you've completed your tax return and hit "Send," the software converts the return to a format that meets IRS specifications. The IRS goes over your return and then notifies the software company, who then in turn notifies you, whether or not your return was filled out correctly and has been accepted or rejected. Not to worry, though -- about 89 percent of e-filed returns are accepted the first time [source: IRS].

The IRS also offers a program called Free File, a free online e-file program for taxpayers who meet certain eligibility requirements. Find out if you're one of them next. Free File offers free, secure online tax preparation and filing to eligible taxpayers. The IRS itself doesn't give you the tax software.

Rather, they partner with private companies who have a proven track record of providing consistent and secure tax services.

The companies that partner with Free File, unlike some other companies offering free tax filing software, are guaranteed to have the most up-to-date programs as well as easy access to IRS. These forms do the math, but do not guide you through the tax preparation process. You may also be able to file your state income taxes using Free File if that particular software offers the ability to do so.

The IRS website lets you choose your e-file software here or, if you're not sure which software you want to use, provides an online wizard to help you choose.

To save yourself some time, here's a checklist of everything you should have ready when you sit down to e-file your taxes. And, if you don't feel comfortable or just don't want to doing this yourself, you can always give your information to a tax professional who can e-file on your behalf. Sign up for our Newsletter! Mobile Newsletter banner close. Mobile Newsletter chat close. Mobile Newsletter chat dots. Mobile Newsletter chat avatar.

Mobile Newsletter chat subscribe. Personal Finance. Contents What Is E-filing? What Is E-filing? How to E-file Your Taxes The process of e-filing your taxes is pretty simple. Here's the basic process: Advertisement. Get Your Tax Refund Date. What is DocuClix? Security About eFile. Where Is My Refund? How to Check Refund Status efile.

Mailing Addresses Contact eFile. Sign In Start Now. Don't Rush IT. IT is Income Taxes and you can easily miss either an income or deduction entry you didn't know you had. That could result in either higher or lower taxes, potential tax penalties , and more additional paper work the IRS or State Tax Agency might impose on you.

If you did, it's all in your account. Here is list of documents that you might need to file your return. Get a f eel for your taxes by using the free, easy to use Tax Calculators. You don't have to calculate on your own; it's all done by the tools. Enter basic amounts without any personal information and get instant results.

Your eFile. Create a free eFile. Your previous tax year data will be in the account in your return. Otherwise, start entering your basic account data and begin the simple tax interview.

Answer easy to understand tax questions as you enter amounts and data. Best money-market accounts. Best high-yield savings accounts. Best bank account bonuses.

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