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Does My Return Have To Be on Paper?
Larry Denton
You may be able to file a paperless return using IRS e-file (electronic filing). It's so easy, over 68 million taxpayers preferred e-file over filing a paper tax return last year.
IRS e-file uses automation to replace most of the manual steps needed to process paper returns. As a result, the processing of e-file returns is faster and more accurate than the processing of paper returns. However, as with a paper return, you are responsible for making sure your return contains accurate information and is filed on time.
Using e-file does not affect your chances of an IRS examination of your return.
Create your own personal identification number (PIN) and use a tax professional or file your own paperless return electronically. If you are married filing jointly, you and your spouse will each need to create a PIN and enter these PINs as your electronic signatures. A PIN is any combination of five numbers, except five zeros. If you use a PIN, there is nothing to sign and nothing to mail—not even your Forms W-2.
To verify your identity, you will be asked to enter your adjusted gross income (AGI) from your originally filed 2004 income tax return, if applicable. Do not use your AGI from an amended return (Form 1040X), math error notice, or other changed amount from the IRS. AGI is the amount shown on your 2004 Form 1040, line 36; Form 1040A, line 21; Form 1040EZ, line 4; and on TeleFile Tax Record, line 1. If you do not have your 2004 income tax return, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to get a free transcript of your account. You will also be asked to enter your date of birth (DOB). Make sure your DOB is accurate and matches the information on record with the Social Security Administration by checking your annual Social Security Statement.
Benefits of IRS e-file
Eligible for Free File • Free File allows qualified taxpayers to prepare and e-file their own tax returns for free using commercially available online tax preparation software.
• Review online tax software provider offerings and determine if you are eligible by visiting the Free File page at www.irs.gov.
Fast! Easy! Convenient! • Get your refund in half the time as paper filers do, even faster and safer with direct deposit.
• Sign electronically and file a completely paperless return.
• Receive an electronic proof of receipt within 48 hours that the IRS received your return.
• If you owe, you can e-file and authorize an electronic funds withdrawal or pay by credit card. If you e-file before April 17, 2006, you can schedule an electronic funds withdrawal from your checking or savings account as late as April 17, 2006.
• Prepare and file your federal and state returns together and save time.
Accurate! Secure! • IRS computers quickly and automatically check for errors or other missing information.
• The chance of being audited does not differ whether you e-file or file a paper tax return.
• Your bank account information is safeguarded along with other tax return information. The IRS does not have access to credit card numbers.
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