WebProNews

The Internal Revenue Service has announced that starting on January 16 it is expanding its e-file program for 2008 federal tax returns.

IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman recommends taxpayers consider e-file this year as the best option to file accurate tax returns and receive fast refunds. The e-file program includes new improvements to the Free File program that will allow nearly all taxpayers to e-file for free.

Doug Shulman
IRS Commissioner

"These are tough times, and e-file is the best way for people to get cash in their pocket quickly," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman.

"Filing electronically with direct deposit can get refunds to taxpayers in as few as 10 days. Combined with important changes in the Free File program, we believe e-file is a better option than ever before for the nation's taxpayers."

The new Free File Fillable Tax Forms allows taxpayers to fill out and file their tax forms electronically, just as they would appear on paper. The option does not include an interview process like other Free File offerings. The IRS says the new service is for those who are comfortable with the tax law, know what forms they want to use and don't need help completing their returns.

IRS e-file allows taxpayers to file their returns now and pay later if they owe taxes. It allows taxpayers to file both federal and most state returns at the same time.

The IRS e-file totaled nearly 90 million tax returns in 2008. Almost 58 percent of all returns were filed electronically and the average refund was $2,429.