E-filing Your Federal Income Tax Return

How does e-file work?

• E-file works in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) Electronic Filing System. Taxpayers can e-file from a computer, or by using a tax preparer who is an approved Electronic Return Originator (ERO).

What are the benefits of e-file?

• Convenience. You can electronically file 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Security. Your tax return information is encrypted and transmitted over secure lines to ensure confidentiality.
• Accuracy. Electronic filed returns have 13 percent fewer errors than paper returns.
• Direct Deposit. You can have your refund direct deposited into your bank account.
• Proof of Filing. An acknowledgment is issued when your return is received and accepted.

Am I eligible to e-file?

• You can e-file unless any of the following apply:
  • Certain schedules excluded by the IRS as listed in Publication 1345

How can I e-file?

• J Brooks & Associates, Inc. is an IRS approved Electronic Return Originator (ERO) and only uses secure, up-to-date tax preparation software, approved by the IRS to prepare and transmit tax returns. Our preferred method of submission is e-filing, but occasionally some taxpayers are required to submit a hard copy of their tax return.

Is it safe and secure to e-file?

• Yes. J Brooks & Associates, Inc. uses tax preparation software that encrypts your tax information and transmitted over secure lines to ensure confidentiality.

Is there a fee for e-file?

• J Brooks & Associates, Inc. does not charge a fee for e-filing your tax return. The IRS and the Department of Revenue do not charge a fee for e-filing.

How do I know if my e-filed return has been received?

• Acknowledgments (electronic confirmations) are issued online by the IRS and state when the returns are received and approved. The federal acknowledgment is received first since the federal return is transmitted first. If there are no errors, an acknowledgment is usually received within 24 hours of the transmission. If the IRS detects an error, an error message is sent back to you or your preparer for corrections to be made. Once the corrections are made, the returns are re-transmitted to the IRS. If the federal return is accepted, the IRS transmits the state return. The state return is usually received within three days of a correct transmission to the IRS. An acknowledgment is also issued by the department.

What if I owe money?

• You can file your return electronically any time during the filing season. Payment must be made by April 15th to avoid interest and penalty charges.

Can I have my federal tax return refund direct deposited into my bank account?

• Yes. J Brooks & Associates, Inc. can prepare your tax return with your bank account number and routing number so your refund can be direct deposited into your account.

Do I need to submit any paperwork or supporting documentation if I e-file?

• No. No paperwork needs to be submitted when you electronically file your return. J Brooks & Associates, Inc. keeps copies of your tax paperwork on file, and will return the originals to your for your storage. We advise you maintain copies of all documents for your records. In some cases, the department will notify taxpayers if documentation is needed for verification.

Contact J Brooks & Associates, Inc. today if you have further questions.

J Brooks & Associates, Inc. is a professional accounting, tax, payroll, and property management firm serving Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, and all of Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties, Florida. Our staff has over 30 years experience in accounting and tax return preparation and over 30 years experience in property management with Homeowner (HOA), Condominium, and Master Community associations. We have qualified individuals well versed in the many functions of accounting, payroll, taxes, budgeting, financial planning and a host of other financial services.

At J Brooks & Associates, Inc. we have extensive experience dealing with federal and state laws, rules, and regulations. J Brooks & Associates, Inc. has the ability to solve your accounting and financial problems, enhance business operations, plan for the future with budgeting and financial analysis, and prepare and file the necessary forms in order to stay in compliance with all reporting agencies. We offer many services that go beyond the general scope of accounting in order to help you succeed in an ever-changing market.