How to File Income Taxes Electronically

How to File Income Taxes Electronically

If you’re not sure how to file your income taxes electronically, never fear! Filing income taxes online isn’t nearly as confusing or overwhelming as it may appear from a distance. In fact, most people find it to be easier than doing their taxes the traditional way.

Yes, filing your taxes online has become an increasingly popular option. Understandably so– it’s free, you don’t have to go to the post office and you get your return more quickly. Available to only people who made $58,000 last year or less, the IRS has teamed up with what it calls “Free File” companies, essentially software or online Fillable Forms that allow you to prepare and e-file your return for free. Turbo Tax is one such example.

So, how should you get started? Let’s take a look at some of the steps involved in how to file your income taxes electronically.

How to File Income Taxes Electronically

Step 1: Get all of your financial information and tax statements together. This includes W2s, 1099s, 1098s, etc.

Step 2: Visit the IRS website. IRS.gov is the official website for the Internal Revenue Service of the federal government of the United States.

Step 3: Look for the Free File page on the IRS site and it will show a list of approved Free File companies– most of which will ask you questions and fill out the forms for you. There is also the option to use “Free Fillable” forms where you fill out all the information yourself before electronically filing.

Step 4: Review all of the information carefully before hitting submit and filing your income taxes electronically.

All in all, it’s a pretty easy process! Kind of amazing how it easy it is, really. For many years I struggled with doing my taxes and felt really overwhelmed. Then filing them electronically became more popular and easier. Last year I decided to take the plunge and used Turbo Tax. Not only was it super easy to understand, but it only took me about 3 hours to do.

I highly recommend filing your income tax electronically to anyone who is on the fence about the matter. You’ll wish you’d been doing it sooner!