The requirements to electronically file a tax return in the United States are rather lenient, but there are exceptions. In most cases, individuals who meet any of the filing requirements as defined by the Internal Revenue Service may electronically file income taxes. A self-employed individual who files a Schedule C as part of his Form 1040 may e-file his return. Corporations, nonprofit agencies and other businesses generally are allowed to e-file, and some are required to e-file. E-filing offers a safe, easy and secure method of filing our annual income taxes.
Types
Whether the taxpayer has a refund or balance due, he can e-file. If a refund is due, the taxpayer has the choice of receiving direct deposit or a paper check. If a balance is due, the taxpayer will receive a voucher send his payment through the United States postal system.
Considerations
Amended returns and those prepared for a previous year cannot be e-filed. A fiscal year other than January through December cannot be e-filed. Descendants' returns cannot be e-filed.
Geography
If you currently do not live in the United States, you cannot e-file. However, a six-month extension of filing may be granted (any balance due must be paid at the original filing date of April 15).
Rejections
Rejected returns that cannot be corrected are disallowed from e-filing. Rejected returns that are not corrected after the time limit of 48 hours cannot be e-filed.
Time Frame
Oct. 15 of the current year is the deadline for the current year’s electronic filing, including extensions. After that, all returns must be paper filed.
State Rules
Rules vary by states, but in general, a taxpayer cannot e-file an amended state return or a return for a prior year. Some states do not allow e-filing if the taxpayer's earned income is from a different state.
Status for Couples
A couple filing separately that lives in a state that follows community property rules may not be able to file electronically. Those states are Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. If only one spouse had earned income and the couple is filing jointly and claiming the child care credit, e-filing is generally not allowed.
