What software is approved for IRS e-file?

The IRS does not endorse or warrant software, but has provided links to electronic filing software web sites at On-line Filing Software Companies. Also, consider IRS e-file by filing through an Authorized IRS e-file Provider. To learn more, refer to our Electronic Services information. For general information about e-file, refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.

We will be filing a joint tax return. Can we file our return electronically?

Yes. Filing your return electronically is faster, safer, and more accurate than mailing your tax return because it is transmitted over telephone lines directly to an IRS computer. Refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing, for more information.

How can I participate as an electronic filing Provider?

To participate in the e-file program, you must first choose the Authorized IRS e-file options that are best for you. An Authorized IRS e-file Provider can be an Electronic Return Originator, Intermediate Service Provider, Transmitter or Software Developer.

Submit Form 8633 (PDF), Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program. Submit your application to the appropriate Service Center as shown on Form 8633. Publication 1345 (PDF), Handbook for Authorized IRS E-File Providers Individual Income Tax Returns, provides you with the information you need to apply to participate in the e-file Program. Technical information can be found in Publication 1346, Electronic Return File Specifications and Record Layouts for Individual Income Tax Returns. Updates to this publication will appear on the Electronic Filing System Bulletin Board. You can also contact the Andover Service Center at 1-800-691-1894 (toll free) for assistance.

Pass a Suitability Background check. If you apply to become an ERO, Transmitter or Intermediate Service Provider, the IRS conducts a background check on all principals of your firm and responsible officials listed on the application to determine their suitability to be an Authorized IRS e-file Provider. If you apply to be a Software Developer only, a suitability check is not required.

I filed electronically but my tax return was rejected. What do I do now?

Your next action depends on the reason your return was rejected. If you made a mistake in entering the social security number or misspelled a name, you can fix these errors and have the return sent again to the IRS. There are other errors that will cause you to have to file using a paper return. If you have further questions, you can call our Customer Service number at 1-800-829-1040. For general information about e-file, refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.

My electronic tax return keeps getting rejected for a dependent's social security number used more than once or on another return. I have verified the social security numbers of all my dependents with the Social Security Administration and no one else is authorized to claim our children on their taxes. How do I correct this error so that an e-file return will go through?

Unfortunately, you will need to file a paper return this year. Do not send any documents that are not required with your tax return. Whether the cause of this rejection is the result of a typo on another return or an attempt by another party to claim your dependent, the IRS has security measures in place to ensure the accuracy of returns submitted. In such cases, the IRS will question the dependency exemptions claimed by any other party using the wrong social security number. For general information about e-file, refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.

Can I file an amended Form 1040X electronically?

At this time, the Form 1040X is not accepted electronically. For general information about e-file, refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.

I don't owe taxes. Can I file electronically after April 15th?

Yes, you can electronically file your return after April 15th, however to do so you must file Form 4868 (PDF), an Application for an Extension of Time to File, on or before April 15th . If the extension is timely filed, you have until August 15th to file your return. If the 15th falls on a weekend or federal holiday, you have until midnight the following business day to submit your extension or your tax return. If additional time is needed please refer to the instruction for Form 2688 (PDF), Application for Additional Time to File US Individual Income Tax Return. Please note that the Form 2688 is not an automatic extension and must be approved by IRS; if it is approved you may have until October 15th to file your return electronically.

If I file electronically, what do I do with my W-2 forms?

When filing electronically you must provide Form W-2 (PDF) to the authorized IRS e-file provider before the provider sends the electronic return to the IRS. In addition, you should keep them in a safe place with a copy of your tax return. For general information about e-file, refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.

What is TeleFile?

TeleFile is an interactive computer program that calculates your taxes and begins the electronic filing process over the phone. IRS automatically sends a special TeleFile package to those who may be eligible to use it. Only those receiving the package can use TeleFile. This year, many taxpayers who filed Form 1040EZ (PDF), Income Tax Return for Single and Joint Filers With No Dependents, or by TeleFile last year will receive a special TeleFile tax package that allows them to file their taxes electronically by phone. TeleFile is easy, fast, and free. It's available 24 hours a day, with nothing to mail in. TeleFile is a great way for students to file their tax returns. Refer to Tax Topic 255, TeleFile, for more information.

Where can I get a TeleFile form?

If you file a paper tax return for the current year and qualify to TeleFile, the IRS should send you a TeleFile package in the mail by January 20th of the following year, which will include your PIN number. The booklet cannot be ordered from the IRS. If you do not qualify, you can still receive all of the benefits that IRS e-file has to offer by using a personal computer or filing through an Authorized IRS e-file Provider. To learn more, refer to our Electronic Services information. For general information about TeleFile or e-file, refer to Tax Topic 255, TeleFile, or Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.

I have not received a TeleFile tax package. Is there a way I can order this form?

If you have met the criteria for using Telefile, i.e., filed TeleFile or a paper 1040EZ last year and have not changed your address or filing requirements, you should receive a package. The booklet cannot be ordered from the IRS. Also, consider IRS e-file using a personal computer or filing through an Authorized IRS e-file Provider. To learn more, refer to our Electronic Services information. For general information about TeleFile or e-file, refer to Tax Topic 255, TeleFile, or Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing.