TeleFile is completely "paperless"; there are no forms to mail. It is an interactive computer system that automatically calculates your tax and begins the electronic filing process over the phone. It's quick, easy, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week using a toll-free number starting January 14, 1999. This year, approximately 24 million single and married taxpayers who filed Form 1040EZ last year will receive a "special" TeleFile Tax booklet allowing them to file their returns by phone.

Only those receiving a TeleFile booklet in their name and who have access to a touch tone phone can use TeleFile. (The booklet cannot be ordered from the IRS.)

Check the booklet carefully. If your name and address are not completely correct, you must file using another method this year. You may download Form 1040EZ and instructions here, or order them by calling 1-800-829-3676.

To ensure trouble free filing, be sure to read all of the instructions, gather all of the tax information, and complete lines "A-G" on the TeleFile Tax Record included in the special tax booklet before dialing into the TeleFile system. Also, make sure that you have all of your W-2 forms.

Once this information is in hand, call the TeleFile toll-free number. The TeleFile system automatically does the math and computes the Earned Income Credit for eligible filers. Before hanging up, please wait for your confirmation number and enter the six digit number on line "M" of the TeleFile Tax Record. TeleFilers usually receive their refunds within three weeks.

If you owe tax, you can still file early using TeleFile to avoid a penalty and interest. Pay all tax owed by April 15, 1999. (Do not wait for a notice, the IRS will not bill you until after April 15th.

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