On average, e-filers receive their refunds in less than half the time as paper returns, Reis said, especially with direct deposit. More and more Americans are discovering that e-filing is fast, easy and accurate. But e-filing isn't just for those expecting a refund. Winget said she would still file online, even if she had to pay, because it is easier. E-filers can schedule when they want payments debited from their accounts, as long as it is before April 16, or authorize a credit payment.
Taxpayers can also authorize direct deposits or debits when filing by phone.
Telefiling is only available to those to whom the appropriate tax packets are sent. But it's computer filing through an authorized provider, such as an accountant, that has been the core e-filing method since its debut in 1986, according to an IRS news release. Jack Snyder, a partner with BTF Advisory Group in Harker Heights, said he processes 50 to 100 e-file returns a year. Snyder said most people who decide to e-file are expecting refunds. Snyder said that although e-filing doesn't comprise most of his business, it has brought in some clients that otherwise would file their own return.