E-file Information, Help & Tips at OLT Tax Corner

The IRS will begin accepting individual tax returns on January 26th, 2026.

The IRS returns about 1% of submissions for corrections. Usually this is because of a typo in the data the customer has entered (an incorrect EIN on a W-2, a misspelled name or a typo in a SSN). Our most common error message this year relates to the Self-Select PIN Program. The most common errors have been listed through our Customer Service page for your convenience by selecting Federal Error Code HELP page.

You will generally have the opportunity to correct the error and resubmit your return. However, please note that if you do not correct the error, your return will not be accepted. It is important that you contact customer service if you have trouble finding the error. You can also call 1-800-829-1040 to speak to someone at the IRS to find out the nature of the problem. The IRS will not give us details concerning your return and the error codes come directly from the IRS.

We strongly recommend against using your last check stub to file. You need information from your W-2 that is not included on your check stub. You may miss out on credits, etc. for which you qualify. In addition, if the information filed does not match the W-2, you will have to file an amended return.

E-file does not begin until late January or early February and W-2's are required to be out by January 31st.

The IRS gets their information from the Social Security Administration. You should check with your local office and make sure what they have on file is the correct information. You should explain your situation and have them resubmit your correct information to the IRS. This should clear up the confusion. This takes time to resolve and will delay your ability to e-file. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to paper file.

If you have already e-filed your federal return with OLT, you can log back into your account and continue by selecting your state to file the state return.

If your federal return was filed through another service, you generally cannot e-file a state-only return with OLT unless you are filing a New York return. New York is the exception due to its e-file mandate.

You may still create and complete the state return in the software; however, once completed, you will need to print, sign, and mail the return to the state.

Yes, you can file electronically.

The IRS generally stops accepting e-filed returns for the year in mid-November. E-filing is not available again until the IRS reopens the system in late January.

Fast refunds! Accuracy! Peace of mind! Security! Proof from the IRS within 48 hours that your return was accepted. Your chance of receiving an error notice is reduced because it is caught ahead of time. IRS e-file is more accurate than paper file.(less than 1% error rate)

No, the IRS cannot compete with the private e-file providers. However, they can provide you a list of authorized e-file providers from which to choose.

If you visit the IRS website and click on the Free File link, there is a list of free e-file providers. You can choose a tax provider from that list to go to their website and e-file your tax return for free.

Yes, e-filing your tax return will generally get you your refund faster than paper filing. The IRS generally takes 10-14 days to process a refund once an e-filed return has been accepted.

Yes, you can check your IRS e-file refund status online by going to the IRS website and clicking on the "Where's My Refund" link.

There are a few ways to check the status of a return you filed online. If you filed using an online tax service, logon to their site and access your information. Or, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and speak with a representative. A visit to the IRS site will allow you to check the status of your refund.

The IRS does provide some online tax help. If you visit the IRS site you may find answers to some of your tax questions. However, if you want to speak with an IRS customer service representative, you will need to call 1-800-829-1040.