How to File a Tax Return Electronically for the First Time

Quick overview

E-filing is the process of sending your federal tax return to the IRS using approved electronic methods: commercial tax software, a tax preparer who e-files on your behalf, or IRS-supported free filing options where available. Electronic filing usually speeds processing, reduces math errors, and delivers a near‑instant acceptance or rejection status from the IRS (IRS e-file options: https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options).

In my work with dozens of first-time filers each year, I see the same practical questions: which method to pick, what documents you must have ready, how to sign electronically, and what to do if the IRS rejects your submission. Below is a clear, step-by-step playbook and troubleshooting guide.

1) Choose your e-filing method

• DIY tax software (free or paid). Most major brands are IRS-authorized e-file providers that walk you through the return and transmit it for you.
• A tax professional (CPA, enrolled agent, or preparer) who transmits returns electronically and usually handles e-signature forms like Form 8879.
• IRS-supported options. The IRS maintains information on approved e-file methods and any free-file programs on its site (see: IRS e-file options).

Which to choose? If your tax situation is simple — one W‑2, standard deduction, limited credits — many people do well with low-cost or free software. If you have multiple income streams, rental property, business income (Schedule C), or complicated deductions, a preparer can reduce errors and help identify credits you might miss.

In practice: I often recommend a hybrid approach for first-timers — start with free or low-cost software to learn how forms and schedules connect. If you encounter red flags or uncertainty, pause and consult a preparer.

2) Gather the documents you’ll need

Create a checklist before you begin. Typical items include:

• Social Security numbers (SSNs) or ITINs for you, your spouse, and dependents.
• Forms W‑2 (wages), 1099‑NEC/1099‑MISC (contractor or miscellaneous income), 1099‑INT/1099‑DIV (interest/dividends), 1099‑R (retirement distributions), and 1099‑K where applicable.
• Last year’s tax return (if available) — helpful for identity verification and for bringing forward carryovers.
• Records of deductible expenses: student loan interest, mortgage interest (Form 1098), property taxes, charitable receipts, medical expenses (if itemizing), business expense records if self‑employed.
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of a refund or direct debit for payments.

Pro tip from practice: scan or place all documents in one folder (physical or digital) before starting. That prevents interruptions and keeps you from guessing on entries.

3) Sign-in and identity verification

• Create accounts only on IRS‑approved sites or reputable tax software providers.
• Many e-file systems will ask for pieces of identity verification: prior-year adjusted gross income (AGI) or a self-selected PIN, the last four digits of an SSN, or information from a prior return. If you did not file a prior-year return, the software will offer alternate verification steps (follow the provider’s instructions).
• Consider setting up an IRS online account for future notices and transcripts (see IRS online account options on IRS.gov).
• If you’re concerned about identity theft, learn about the IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) and how it prevents fraudulent e-filings (see Understanding IRS Identity Protection PINs in our glossary: https://finhelp.io/glossary/understanding-irs-identity-protection-pins/ and IRS IP PIN page).

Note: the verification steps vary by provider. Do not give your full SSN over email; use only secure portals.

4) Complete the return in the software or with your preparer

• Follow the software’s question-and-answer flow. It will map your answers to Form 1040 and any necessary schedules.
• Use built-in help and prompts. Most programs flag common deductions and credits (earned income credit, child tax credit, education credits).
• If a preparer is filing, they may give you a draft to review before transmission.

From practice: take time to read the imported amounts (W‑2/1099) and check that employer names, addresses, and amounts match your paper copies. Small typos can trigger rejections.

5) Review, sign, and submit

• Carefully review every screen summary before transmission. Pay special attention to personal information, bank account numbers, and direct deposit routing numbers.
• Sign electronically. Depending on your filing method:
• DIY software: you’ll typically sign with a self-selected personal identification number (PIN) and provide your prior‑year AGI as an identifier, or follow alternative verification if you don’t have prior-year AGI.
• Tax preparer: you will either sign Form 8879 (IRS e-file signature authorization) or use the preparer’s electronic signature method.
• Submit the return. If accepted, the software or preparer will show an acceptance notice; the IRS typically accepts or rejects electronically submitted returns within 24–48 hours.

If the IRS rejects the return, the e-file software will supply a rejection code and instructions. Common reasons: mismatch in SSN, incorrect AGI entry, duplicate filing, or missing dependent information.

6) After acceptance: tracking your refund and next steps

• Track your refund using IRS “Where’s My Refund?” or the IRS2Go app; you will need your SSN, filing status, and exact refund amount (IRS refunds: https://www.irs.gov/refunds).
• Keep proof of filing: save the accepted e-file confirmation, Form 8453 (if applicable), and a PDF copy of your return for at least three years.
• If you chose direct deposit and the bank account info was wrong, see steps to recover or correct direct deposit errors (FinHelp guide: Direct Deposit Errors: Steps to Correct Where the IRS Sent Your Refund — https://finhelp.io/glossary/direct-deposit-errors-steps-to-correct-where-the-irs-sent-your-refund/).

Common first-time e-filing questions and mistakes

• “I don’t have last year’s AGI.” If you didn’t file last year, the software provides alternative verification paths. Don’t guess; follow the software or preparer instructions.
• “My return was rejected.” Read the rejection code and correct the specific field (often SSN, name, or AGI mismatch). If you’re stuck, contact the software help line or your preparer.
• “I need to change my return after filing.” You must file an amended return (Form 1040‑X); some amended returns can be e-filed, but others may require paper filing depending on the tax year and circumstances. See FinHelp’s guide on amending returns for more: Amending Your Return with Form 1040-X (https://finhelp.io/glossary/amending-your-return-with-form-1040-x-common-reasons-and-pitfalls/).

Security and fraud safeguards

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on software and IRS accounts.
• Beware of phishing: the IRS will not initiate contact by email, text, or social media demanding payment. If you receive a suspicious request, confirm via the IRS site.
• Electronic signatures and transmissions are encrypted by IRS-approved providers. For details on secure electronic signature procedures, see our secure e-sign guide: How to Electronically Sign and File Your Tax Return Securely (https://finhelp.io/glossary/how-to-electronically-sign-and-file-your-tax-return-securely/).

Timing and what to expect for refunds

• E-filing plus direct deposit is usually the fastest way to receive a refund. Typical timelines vary, but many taxpayers receive refunds within a few weeks after acceptance. Refunds claiming refundable credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can take longer due to IRS verification rules. For the most up-to-date timing, check IRS refund tools.

Checklist for first-time electronic filers

• [ ] Collect W‑2s, 1099s, last year’s return (if available), SSNs/ITINs.
• [ ] Choose software or preparer and create secure account.
• [ ] Enter all income and deduction items carefully.
• [ ] Verify bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
• [ ] Sign electronically and submit.
• [ ] Save e-file acceptance confirmation and a PDF copy of the return.
• [ ] Track refund at IRS.gov and respond promptly to any IRS notices.

When to call a professional

Contact a CPA, enrolled agent, or qualified preparer if you have:

• Complex business income or large capital gains.
• Multiple states to file in.
• Questions about claiming credits with special documentation (EITC verification, education credits, etc.).
• Identity theft concerns or IRS notices about someone else filing using your SSN.

In my practice, clients with freelance income or rental properties frequently save more by consulting a preparer up front than by correcting errors later.

Sources and where to learn more

• IRS — E-file Options: https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options (official guidance on electronic filing methods).
• IRS — Where’s My Refund?: https://www.irs.gov/refunds (track refund status).
• IRS — Get an Identity Protection PIN: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin (info on IP PINs).
• FinHelp glossary: Direct Deposit Errors (https://finhelp.io/glossary/direct-deposit-errors-steps-to-correct-where-the-irs-sent-your-refund/).
• FinHelp glossary: How to Electronically Sign and File Your Tax Return Securely (https://finhelp.io/glossary/how-to-electronically-sign-and-file-your-tax-return-securely/).
• FinHelp glossary: Understanding IRS Identity Protection PINs (https://finhelp.io/glossary/understanding-irs-identity-protection-pins/).

Professional disclaimer: This article is educational only and does not substitute for personalized tax advice. For complex tax situations, deadlines, or specific account questions, consult a licensed tax professional or the IRS directly.

If you want, I can provide a printable checklist or a one-page worksheet you can use while gathering documents the first time you e-file.