Here are Some Reasons Taxpayers should E-File their Taxes

Some taxpayers still use the old-school method of filing their tax returns: on paper. For these people, now is the time to switch and file electronically.

All taxpayers should consider joining the more than 138 million taxpayers who used IRS e-file last year. Here are the top reasons why taxpayers should file electronically in 2020:

It’s safe and secure.

• IRS e-file meets strict security guidelines. It uses modern encryption technology to protect tax returns. The IRS continues to work with states and tax industry leaders to protect tax returns from tax-related identity theft. This effort has helped put safeguards in place to make electronic tax filing a safe and secure option.

E-file helps taxpayers avoid mistakes, such as an incorrect Social Security number.

• Taxpayers who e-file receive an acknowledgement from the IRS within minutes, telling them their return has been accepted. If a return is rejected, the acknowledgement says why the IRS rejected the tax return.

People who e-file get faster refunds.

• When taxpayers e-file and use direct deposit for their refund, in most cases they can get their money in less than 21 days. On the other hand, if they mail a paper tax return to the IRS and request a refund check in the mail, it can take up to six weeks. That’s a difference of three weeks! Also, since e-filed returns are generally more accurate, there probably won’t be additional delays. Delays can be caused when the IRS finds mistakes that must be fixed before the agency can send a refund.