Submitting your tax return by e-file and mailing it on paper are the only two ways to send your tax return to the IRS. E-file is faster, safer, and generally more convenient than paper filing. Filing on paper is generally cheaper, and refunds take longer.
E-file benefits
Electronically submitting your tax return to the IRS is faster, more convenient, and more secure than paper filing. But in order to e-file your return you have to have your taxes done by a tax preparer, prepare them yourself using tax software, or use one of the "Free File" web software programs.
Confirmation from the IRS
The biggest benefit for electronic filing: you will receive a confirmation that the IRS has received your tax return. This is proof that the IRS received your tax return and has started processing it.
If the IRS does not accept your tax return, you will get a rejection notice. The confirmation or rejection notice is sent within 24 hours of transmitting your return. The IRS e-file rejection letter will tell you how to fix your tax return so it will be acceptable to the IRS.
Faster and More Accurate
E-filing has some added benefits too. Your refund is likely to be processed faster. E-filing means the IRS does not have to re-type your tax return at their service center, which means less chance that the IRS will make a mistake when processing your return.
E-file benefits
Electronically submitting your tax return to the IRS is faster, more convenient, and more secure than paper filing. But in order to e-file your return you have to have your taxes done by a tax preparer, prepare them yourself using tax software, or use one of the "Free File" web software programs.
Confirmation from the IRS
The biggest benefit for electronic filing: you will receive a confirmation that the IRS has received your tax return. This is proof that the IRS received your tax return and has started processing it.
If the IRS does not accept your tax return, you will get a rejection notice. The confirmation or rejection notice is sent within 24 hours of transmitting your return. The IRS e-file rejection letter will tell you how to fix your tax return so it will be acceptable to the IRS.
Faster and More Accurate
E-filing has some added benefits too. Your refund is likely to be processed faster. E-filing means the IRS does not have to re-type your tax return at their service center, which means less chance that the IRS will make a mistake when processing your return.