Getting Started
A good place to start is by getting organized. Find helpful hints and information on how to get your files organized in our 2002 Consumer Focus on Taxes.
Over the years, the IRS has made filing your taxes easier by giving taxpayers options on how they can file. You can file your taxes by mail, telephone or electronically.
Mail
If you choose to mail your tax returns, you will need the proper IRS forms. You can obtain the forms and publications by one of the following methods:
Once you have decided how to obtain your forms, you can click on your state or the international filing link on the "Where to File" page of the IRS website to find the correct address to send your return.
Qualified taxpayers who receive the TeleFile booklet in the mail can file using the TeleFile toll-free number. You will need a touch-tone phone, your tax information and about ten minutes. TeleFile will compute the earned income tax credit, new rate reduction credit and 10% tax rate for dependents, if you are eligible, and automatically figure the amount of your refund or balance due. There are no forms to mail in, and TeleFile gives you a confirmation number at the end of the call to confirm your filing.
Electronically
You can e-file your taxes using a tax preparer or a computer. E-filing offers a quick, easy and accurate alternative to the paper return. Your forms cannot get lost in the mail and you can either receive your refund through direct deposit or pay your balance by using the electronic payment option.
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