TeleFile is completely "paperless"; there are no forms to mail. It is an interactive computer program that automatically calculates your tax and begins the electronic filing process over the telephone. It's quick, easy, free, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week using a toll-free number (For 2002, this service is available January 10th through August 15th). This year, millions of single and married taxpayers who filed Form 1040EZ (PDF) last year will receive a "special" TeleFile Tax booklet allowing them to file their returns by telephone.

Only those receiving a TeleFile booklet in their name and who have access to a touch-tone telephone can use TeleFile. (The booklet cannot be ordered from the IRS.)

Check the booklet carefully. If your name and address are not completely correct, you must file using another electronic filing option or file on paper using Form 1040EZ. For additional information on Electronic Filing, refer to Tax Topic 252.

To ensure trouble-free filing, be sure to read all of the instructions, gather all of the tax information, and complete lines "A-H" on the TeleFile Tax Record included in the special tax booklet before dialing into the TeleFile system. Also, make sure that you have all of your W-2 forms.

Once this information is in hand, call the TeleFile toll-free number. The TeleFile system automatically does the math and computes the Earned Income Credit for eligible filers. Before hanging up, you must wait for your confirmation number and enter the ten digit number on line "N" of the TeleFile Tax Record. TeleFilers usually receive their refunds within three weeks. If you owe tax, you can still file early using TeleFile. You may use the direct debit feature and select the date the payment will be withdrawn from your account. To avoid a penalty and interest, pay all tax owed by April 15, 2002. (Do not wait for a notice, the IRS will not bill you until after April 15th.)

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