FAQ's

What software is approved for IRS e-file?

The IRS does not endorse or approve software. You may want to consider IRS e-file by filing through an Authorized IRS e-file Provider. To learn more, refer to our Electronic Services information.

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.

How can I correct a mistake on my federal e-file return?

Once accepted, you must allow the e-file return to process before making any changes. You cannot correct a mistake on a federal return which was filed electronically. You need to file an amended or corrected return using Form 1040X (PDF), Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, as soon as possible. Include copies of any schedules that have been changed or any Forms W-2 you did not include. The 1040X is a paper form.

Can I file an amended Form 1040X electronically?

At this time, the Form 1040X is not accepted electronically by IRS .

How long does it take after you've filed to receive a refund?

Processing time for tax refund returns depends on the method used for filing. If you e-file opting for direct deposit and have not received your refund within 3 weeks after filing your return (eight weeks if you filed a paper return opting for a paper check), you can check your refund status by clicking on "Where's My Refund" then go to "Get My Refund Status" (after inputting the required data). Or, you can call the Refund Hotline at (800) 829-1954. Be sure to have available a copy of your current tax return because you will need to know your social security number shown on your tax return, the tax filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of your refund. If you have requested direct deposit, the refund should take one week less time to be issued as opposed to getting a paper check

How can I check on the status of my tax refund?

Tax Refund information does not become available until it has been 6 weeks since you filed your tax return (3 weeks if you filed electronically or through TeleFile). After waiting the appropriate number of weeks, the fastest, easiest way to find out about your current year refund is to log onto www.irs.gov. Click on Where's My Refund then go to Get My Refund Status or you can call Refund Hotline at (800) 829-1954. Be sure to have a copy of your current tax return available because you will need to know your social security number shown on your return, the filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of our refund. The IRS updates refund information every seven days.

I lost my tax refund check. How do I get a new one?

Call the IRS at (800) 829-1954. If your refund check has not been cashed, we can normally provide a replacement within six to eight weeks. If your refund check has been cashed, the Financial Management Service (FMS) will provide a copy of the check and a Form 3911 (PDF) Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund, to initiate a claim. The signature on the cancelled check will be reviewed before determining whether another refund can be issued.

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.

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), anApplication 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.

How much does a student have to make before he or she has to file an income tax return?

If you are an unmarried dependent, you must file a tax return for 2004 if you have earned income of more than $4,850, unearned income of more than $800, or if your gross income is more than $800 and exceeds your earned income by more than $250. If part of your earned income is from tips.

Even if you do not have to file, you should file a federal income tax return to get money back if any of the following apply:

You had income tax withheld from your pay.
You qualify for the earned income credit.
You qualify for the additional child tax credit