@ upech wrote:
@ xmasbaby0 @ mesquitebean I see, so I won't have to mail it if I change it to e-file right? It'll mail the documents to IRS electronically and then I'll have to print my copies of the documents myself later right? And it'll take less time to process that way?
Efiling is the recommended way to file. If you have not filed anything at all (i.e., if you haven't printed and mailed the return), you can go back into your return interview to the FILE section and change the filing method to efile. You can follow the steps that were outlined in my comment above, and a FAQ link was also provided there for more info.
If you efile, be sure you go all the way to the end and click a big orange button Transmit My Returns Now.
Yes, efiled returns are normally processed much faster; most are processed within 21 days, but occasionally it can take longer. A paper return can take several weeks to several months to process. Efiling also avoids any problems with the mail, and efiling also avoids an IRS agent having to manually enter a paper return into their system.
If you choose to efile, then there is nothing to mail. Yes, you can print out a copy for your records. It's a good idea to view/print out a copy prior to filing to make sure everything is correct and like you want it.
After efiling, you should watch for 2 emails over the subsequent 24-48 hours--the first one saying the return has been transmitted, and a later one saying if the return was accepted or rejected for processing by the IRS. If you are efiling a state return, too, then you should also get an email about the state return.
