As a result of a cooperative effort between the IRS and state tax administration agencies, Federal/State e-file is available to taxpayers to file their Federal and state returns electronically at the same time. It is available to you through tax professionals or in some states by filing from your home computer. Within 48 hours of submitting your e-file return, the IRS and the state acknowledge receipt and acceptance of your return! Because it's an IRS e-file enhancement, Federal/State e-file means Fast Refunds - even faster with Direct Deposit.
Federal/State e-file is available in 37 states and the District of Columbia.
Publication 1803 - Federal and State e-file Program Brochure (Printer Friendly Version)
The Federal and State e-file Program will make your client relationships stronger and save you time and money. Your clients can take advantage of filing their federal and state income tax returns at the same time and the benefits of IRS e-file --consider it done!
Questions and Answers
Q. How does Federal/State e-file work?
A. Federal/State e-file allows the electronic filing of both Federal and state income tax returns at the same time. The electronic filing software places your Federal and state return data in separate packets. These packets are transmitted to the IRS in one taxpayer "envelope." The IRS functions as an electronic post office for the participant state, who receives and processes the state electronic return.
Q. In which states may I take advantage of the Federal/State e-file option?
A. Federal/State e-file is supported in the following 37 states and the District of Columbia:
| Alabama |
Kansas |
North Dakota |
| Arizona |
Kentucky |
Ohio |
| Arkansas |
Louisiana |
Oklahoma |
| Colorado |
Maryland |
Oregon |
| Connecticut |
Michigan |
Pennsylvania |
| Delaware |
Mississippi |
Rhode Island |
| District of Columbia |
Missouri |
South Carolina |
| Georgia |
Montana |
Utah |
| Hawaii |
Nebraska |
Vermont |
| Idaho |
New Jersey |
Virginia |
| Illinois |
New Mexico |
West Virginia |
| Indiana |
New York |
Wisconsin |
| Iowa |
North Carolina |
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Q. How will using this option benefit me?
A. Benefits include:
- Fast Refund - Your tax return is processed quickly which means at the IRS, and in most states, you can have your refund directly deposited into your checking or savings account.
- Fast processing - Your refund is received twice as fast. The IRS and participating states can process your e-file returns much more quickly than those that are filed on paper. It saves time and brings you a faster refund of your Federal and state income tax refund.
- Improved Accuracy - Tax preparation software eliminates errors you may make, and e-file processing of the Federal and state return eliminates most errors. The error rate on an e-file return is less than 1%.
- Proof of Filing - You can meet your Federal and state tax obligation at the same time. The IRS and state agency will let you know that your return has been received and accepted.
- Convenience - At IRS and in most states you can file early and pay any balance due by April 16.
Q. Can I pay both Federal and State balance in one transaction?
A. Federal tax payments can be made via direct debit (automatic withdrawal) or credit card. In addition some states are accepting direct debit and credit card payments. The federal and state payments are not combined. For additional information contact your state e-file coordinator .
Q.Which states support direct state e-file programs?
A. California, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and New York
Q. How can I learn more about Federal/State e-file and/or state e-file programs?
A. Additional information is available through the IRS toll-free telephone service (1-800-829-1040) or from your state tax administration office.
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