November 13, 2009, Newsletter Issue #193: Method of Efiling

Tip of the Week

E-filing, short for electronic filing, is when you choose to file and submit your income tax return to the IRS through one of the following methods:

A tax preparation software program,The computer of a tax preparer, orAn online tax preparation service. Many tax preparation companies offer a tax preparation software program to help taxpayers both prepare and file their income tax returns.

Tax Software Program. A tax preparation software program will usually offer different features to help taxpayers during their tax preparation process. A popular feature of many of these programs is the capability to allow taxpayers to file their taxes online. If it is a good tax software program, this feature will be easy and quick to use. The software program will take you step-by-step through your tax return preparation process. It also will double-check your work as you go along. When something does not match, you will receive an error message. Upon correcting the information, you will be allowed to proceed in the process.

Some tax preparation software programs can be downloaded to your computer from the Internet. These are not the same programs as those that are strictly offered online. A downloaded tax preparation software program is found on an Internet site and downloaded to your personal computer. You do not have to be online to use it. Check around to see what is available.

Tax Preparer. When you take your tax return to a tax preparer, ask if they submit tax returns via e-file. Most tax preparers will offer this service. Many charge a fee. Call and ask beforehand. When you have someone else prepare your tax return for e-filing, you will need to take them the same financial documents as if you were filing with the paper method.

Online. An online tax preparation service is usually found on many of the tax preparation firms websites. You must be online to utilize this service. Whenever you purchase a tax preparation software program, see if this feature is offered. You also can obtain some online tax return filing sites by simply performing an online search. Also, many service providers offer this service through the IRS Free File Alliance program. Check to be certain what the fee is, if any.

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.

Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Taxes Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Jolyn Wells-Moran