Options for e-filing your returns—safely, quickly, and easily

Why do 80% of Americans file their taxes electronically?

• Security—The IRS uses the latest encryption technology to safeguard your information.
• Flexible payments—File early; pay by April 15.
• Greater Accuracy—Fewer errors mean faster processing.
• Quick receipt—Receive an acknowledgment that your return was received and accepted.
• Go green—Reduce the amount of paper used. It's free—through Free File.
• Faster refunds—Get your refund faster by e-filing using direct deposit.

Joining the 110 million Americans who already are using e-file is easy. Just ask your paid or volunteer tax preparer, use commercial software, or use Free File. IRS e-file is the safest, most secure way to transmit your tax return to the IRS. Since 1990, the IRS has processed more than 1 billion e-filed tax returns safely and securely. There's no paper return to be lost or stolen.

Most tax return preparers are now required to use IRS e-file. If you are asked if you want to e-file, just give it a try. IRS e-file is now the norm, not the exception. Most states also use electronic filing.

Volunteers are available in communities nationwide providing free tax assistance to low to moderate income (generally under $50,000 in adjusted gross income) and elderly taxpayers (age 60 and older). At selected sites, taxpayers can input and electronically file their own tax return with the assistance of an IRS-certified volunteer.

See Free Tax Return Assistance near the end of these instructions for additional information or visit IRS.gov (Keyword: VITA) for a VITA/TCE site near you!

If your adjusted gross income was $57,000 or less in 2012, you can use free tax software to prepare and e-file your tax return. Earned more? Use Free File Fillable Forms.

This public-private partnership, between the IRS and tax software providers, makes approximately 20 popular commercial software products and e-file available for free. Seventy percent of the nation's taxpayers are eligible.

Just visit www.irs.gov/freefile for details. Free File combines all the benefits of e-file and easy-to-use software at no cost. Guided questions will help ensure you get all the tax credits and deductions you are due. It's fast, safe, and free.

You can review each provider's eligibility rules or use an online tool to find those software products that match your situation. Some providers offer state tax return preparation either for a fee or for free. Free File also is available in English and Spanish.

The IRS offers electronic versions of IRS paper forms that also can be e-filed for free. Free File Fillable Forms is best for people experienced in preparing their own tax returns. There are no income limitations. Free File Fillable Forms does basic math calculations. It supports only federal tax forms.

IRS.gov is the gateway to all electronic services offered by the IRS, as well as the spot to download forms if you should choose to file a paper return.

Do you have a balance due or owe estimated taxes? You can pay electronically either online or by phone, or if you e-file you can pay by electronic funds withdrawal or credit/debit card.

It's convenient! You control when your payment is submitted and processed, and receive confirmation of your payment.

It's secure! The IRS uses the latest encryption technology to transmit your payment, and does not store your bank information.

It's green! Electronic payments are paperless, so no check to write and no voucher to mail!

Visit www.irs.gov/e-pay for more information or to make a payment.