e-file your tax return using your PC

IRS presents

April 03, 2001

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Maxanne-IRS: Check out the IRS e-file Partners or On-Line Filing software companies pages. If you have additional questions, you can also contact the IRS toll-free customer service site at 1-800-829-1040.

Lalo: Where else can I learn about using my personal computer to e-file my return? Sarah: When it comes to filing taxes I am pretty much illiterate. Are there instructions on how to go through the process?

Maxanne-IRS: You can learn about filing your taxes using your personal computer by checking our website, www.irs.gov. At this website, you can find out information about filing your taxes using a personal computer. There are various software packages which support this method of filing. The software provides instructions on preparing and filing your taxes and sending them electronically to the IRS.

Diane: How would I go about applying for an extension through e-file, or is that not possible?

Maxanne-IRS: There are several software packages which support filing your extension. However, on April 5th I believe there's a session about tele-file extensions, which you can learn more about how to file your extension.

Gerald: What precautions has the IRS taken concerning security in respect to filing on the internet?

Maxanne-IRS: The IRS has completed a sweeping set of changes and upgrades to add strengthened protection for the agency's e-filing program. To put it simply, taxpayers can feel safe and secure using e-filing during this year's filing season. We have strengthened our system's security, and we will remain vigilant to keeping our e-filing process as safe as possible. As noted by the General Accounting Office, there were some e-filing areas that needed strengthening during last year's filing season. When the findings came to our attention, the IRS moved swiftly to implement these changes - a point acknowledged by the GAO. We have had over 200 million successfully-filed returns. During this time, we have had no unauthorized accesses to the system or security violations. Our No. 1 priority is protecting taxpayer data.

Louise: Is there a lower and upper limit on taxable income in order to qualify for filing through the e-file system?

Maxanne-IRS: There are several software packages which offer free electronic filing. Several packages offer free electronic filing of your return depending on the amount of the adjusted gross income. Please check the IRS website at www.irs.gov under "e-file partners" or the On-Line filing company listing for software packages which offer free or low-cost services to prepare and send your return.

Kathleen-IRS: IRS e-file is available to all taxpayers who participate in electronic filing regardless of their income. Some limitations may occur based on the forms they are required to file, but the majority of forms are accepted in electronic filing.

Joker: Is there a deadline beyond the normal extension period for filing through the e-file system?

Maxanne-IRS: You have two extensions - October 15th would be the final extension or deadline.

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