Jan 19,2001   - Bard announces paperless filing options

Public Service Feature
Telefile, e-file and Internet filing a State Tax Form

HARRISBURG - Filing a state personal income tax return this year could be as simple as making a telephone call or logging on to the Internet, according to Rep. Ellen Bard.

For the third year, millions of citizens will receive a TeleFile booklet in the mail, giving them the chance to file their taxes using a touch-tone phone. The process is simple, free and can take as little as ten minutes to complete. There is nothing to mail, and your refund check could be on its way in three weeks.

TeleFile is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just complete the worksheet, call the toll-free number and file your return. The computer system will figure out if you will receive a refund, owe tax, or have already paid the correct amount of tax.

Pennsylvania continues to move toward paperless tax returns with the introduction of free Internet filing. Pa.direct.file allows taxpayers to file their 2000 returns electronically, without cost, in about 20 minutes. You can also file your state and federal tax returns electronically through an authorized tax preparer using e-file.

For more information about TeleFile or electronic filing, visit the Department of Revenue’s Web site at www.revenue.state.pa.us   or call toll-free 1-888-PATAXES to obtain tax forms. Pa.direct.file can be accessed through the Pennsylvania Web page at www.revenue.state.pa.us .

Taxpayers are reminded that recent changes to the tax forgiveness law means a family of four with an annual income of $26,000 or less will not owe any state taxes. To see if you’re eligible, check your tax booklet for the telephone number of the Revenue district office near you or call the department’s Taxpayer Service at (717) 787-8201.

Also this year, the deadline to file has been moved back to April 16 because the traditional deadline of April 15 falls on a Sunday.