To start efiling, simply login to the service provider website, and create an account (if this is the first time you are efiling). If you already have an account, you can use back the same user name and password to efile. Your SSN number will be your user name. During account creation, you will be prompted for a password. Choose something that you will remember. But never choose a password like "123456", or anything that can be easily guessed.
eFiling service providers use highly reliable software to allow users to efile. The software is online - you don't have to install any additional software. When you efile, the process is a step by step procedure. You will be guided every single step.
If you are efiling for individual income tax, you should complete the filling up the online forms within a couple of hours.
Currently, the supported states are California, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Remember, different states may require you to use different forms. Most of the commonly used forms are supported by the software. But it's always good to check if all the supported forms are available before proceeding. Otherwise, you may need to send in the additional forms manually.
When you file for tax returns, you will most likely be using the 1040 form. This form is used for declaring individual income taxes. However, there are 3 types of 1040 forms, and the form that you use depends on several factors.
For example, if you earn more than 100k, the form to use is 1040. But if you earn less than 100k, and you prefer ease and convenience, you should use the 1040EZ form.
When in doubt, there are 3 sources you can clarify your doubts:
1) Your tax advisor.
Your personal tax advisor will be able to help you with your tax returns.
2) IRS website.
This is the official site for all the necessary information you will ever need. The only problem is that the information may be hard to understand, especially if you are not tax savvy. If that's the case, speak with a tax advisor.
3) eFiling service provider.
Treat this as your last stop. Don't expect the service provider to provide in depth information on tax matters. That is not what the efiling websites are for. However, you can still ask standard questions like what forms are supported, etc. The FAQ page will provide you with lots of useful information.
