LiveWorld Transcripts

IRS presents

IRS e-file experts
e-file for Individuals

April 11, 2001

Page 2 of 5

Gerri: The answer is that IRS currently cannot accept amended returns, so they need to be filed on paper. However, future enhancements will eventually include the ability to e-file an amended return.

Tusky Says: What are the minimum computer requirements to file electronically?

Maxanne: The minimum computer requirements would include access to a personal computer. You need to check with the tax preparation software that you are using to see if it is compatible with the operating system of your computer, and you also need to have a modem in order to safely transmit your return and receive proof of acknowledgement.

Brenda Says: I went to e-file my return and it said I need Adobe Acrobat Reader. What is that and how much is it? Where can I get it?

Gerri: To my knowledge, that can be downloaded free. You need it to read certain documents and also to print certain documents.

Dynamite Says: How long does the entire electronic filing process take?

Maxanne: It depends on the complexity of the return. Using software definitely helps, because it does all the math computations for you and, in most cases, you can do a federal and state return, which means the information that you've entered on the federal return automatically transfers to the state return. The actual transmitting of the return is a very short process, of course -- it usually takes a minute or less, depending on the speed of the modem that you have. The transfer of data is a very quick process. If you have a refund due, you have the option to have your refund direct deposited into any bank account you choose. If you have a balance due you can file and pay with a direct debit from your bank account or use your credit card. These options can be a part of your filing your electronic return.

Leon Says: My e-file number (ECN) was mailed to me on a postcard, but I have since lost it. What should I do now?

Gerri: For the current filing season, the IRS did not issue ECN numbers. You have the option of filing a totally paperless return by using the self-select PIN. You need to have a copy of last year's (1999) return and two pieces of information, which would include the adjusted gross income and total tax money amounts. You will need to enter your date of birth, and you can sign the return by entering your PIN. Most software supports the self-select PIN option. The PIN you select should be five digits.

Fan Says: How do you protect confidential information I give you?

Maxanne: For obvious reasons we cannot disclose actual security measures, but we have accepted over 200 million e-filed returns with no security breaches.

Gail Says: How do I contact the IRS if I have questions while preparing my return?

Maxanne: If you are preparing your own return and have questions regarding its completion you can contact the IRS toll-free line, 1-800-829-1040.

Gerri: If you are using commercial software to prepare it and have questions, most software companies will provide customer support and will answer questions about their software.

Page 2 of 5