October 2000

Although it won't decrease your tax debt, online tax filing has its benefits. You can quickly file your return from the convenience of your home, without driving all over town to find tax forms. If you're owed a refund, you'll get it quicker because your return is automatically submitted for you. And if you're not a whiz with numbers, you'll appreciate that the e-file sites typically do the math for you.

The IRS offers e-file partnerships with private companies as a convenience for taxpayers. You can visit their site to find out about each partner's services, then click directly to any partner site you choose. Though this is a helpful resource, keep in mind that the IRS very clearly states that it does not endorse any of the partner sites. When using online tax preparation and filing sites, make sure you feel you can trust them with your personal information. Read about their security protocols and privacy statement and contact them with any questions or concerns. During the last tax season, some online filing sites reported problems with data leaks, and customer information was inadvertently viewable by other customers. Though the problem was fixed quickly, you don't want to be the one it happens to next.

If you'd like to try the convenience of filing online this year, here are some sites to choose from: www.fileyourtaxes.com This authorized IRS e-file provider simplifies the online filing process in a secure environment. They'll also send you a paper copy of your return for your records. http://www.E1040.com This site offers secure online filing with free phone support if you prepare your own return. Want help? They'll prepare your return for a higher fee and file your extension, too. www.hdvest.com Prepare and file your federal and selected state tax returns free at this site. They offer direct deposit of refunds and can set up an automatic debit for tax payments at no cost.

	If online filing doesn't appeal to you, you can still ease your tax-time pain by using the many Web resources available: www.irs.gov Download federal forms and other information direct from the source. www.taxadmin.org The Federation of Tax Administrators features print-ready tax forms for all states. www.taxpenalty.com Enter your information and this site will recommend ways to lower tax penalties. The service is free if your tax penalty is less than $500. www.irs.gov The W-4 withholding calculator helps you figure out if you're withholding the right amount from your paycheck. www.moneycentral.msn.com MoneyCentral lists the top seven taxpayer mistakes, the top 10 overlooked deductions and other helpful information.