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Wisconsin Department of Revenue

About Wisconsin e-file

  1. When can I use Wisconsin e-file?
  2. Is there a cost to use Wisconsin e-file?
  3. What are the benefits to using Wisconsin e-file?
  4. What do I need before I begin to use Wisconsin e-file?
  5. Is there a registration process to use Wisconsin e-file?
  6. Does Wisconsine-file limit the amount of time I have to complete and file my tax return?
  7. How do I move through/navigate Wisconsin e-file?
  8. Do I need to have attachments when using Wisconsin e-file?
  9. Can I still file my income tax return using Wisconsin e-file after April 15th?
  1. When can I use Wisconsin e-file?

    Wisconsin e-file is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

  2. Is there a cost to use Wisconsin e-file?

    Wisconsin e-file is free.

  3. What are the benefits to using Wisconsin e-file?
    • Wisconsin e-file performs calculations for you. This reduces time spent using the tax and credit tables, and manually performing mathematical calculations, thus reducing the chance for error.
    • Wisconsin e-file eliminates the need for you to search through an instruction booklet for help. Now you can simply hover over and/or click on question markfor your line item instructions.
    • Wisconsin e-file will speed up your filing process. Once you input and verify your tax information, simply select Submit Return buttonand your tax return is filed with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. You will immediately receive a unique confirmation number that lets you know you have filed.
    • Wisconsin e-file will let you print your return as filed so that you will have a copy for your records.
    • Wisconsin e-file is paperless. You do not need to send us a copy of your return or your W-2’s or 1099’s unless requested by the department. For the Form 1, you must attach a complete copy of your federal income tax return with your electronic filing. How do I attach my federal return? Exception: You will need to send your original Rent Certificate and/or property tax bill(s), W-2’s and 1099’s if you file a homestead credit claim.
    • Wisconsin e-file will allow most refunds to be received in as little as 5 to 7 business days, if you choose the direct deposit option. Paper filed returns can take as long as 10 weeks to process.
    • Wisconsin e-file allows you to file and pay your taxes 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which means increased flexibility for you. In addition, you can prepare and file your tax return early in the season, but schedule your payment for anytime up to the tax due date of April 15th. If you file after April 15th, you still have the option to choose direct debit/withdrawal and pay on the day that you file your return.
    • Wisconsin e-file reduces costs and increases efficiency for the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

    Best of all, Wisconsin e-file is FREE!

  4. What do I need before I begin to use Wisconsin e-file?

    You will need the following information:

    • Have your completed federal income tax return (especially if you are filing a Form 1); and
    • All of your W-2, W-2G, and 1099 forms;
    • If you choose to direct deposit your refund or pay an amount owed by direct debit/withdrawal, you will need your financial institution account number and routing transit number for your checking or savings account;
    • If you choose to pay by credit card, you will need this information:
    • Social Security Number
    • Name
    • Address
    • E-mail Address
    • Phone number
    • Tax Year
    • Payment Amount
    • Credit Card Number
    • Credit Card Expiratkion Date
    • Zip Code of Credit card billing address
    • Accepted credit cards include American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa.
    • We recommend that you have a printer ready to print a copy of your return for your records. If you do not print or save your return once you have filed, there will be a processing fee to obtain a copy at a later time.
    • You can choose to save your return in a portable document format (PDF) to your PC or other storage device (disk, CD, etc.). Simply select "File: and "Save As."

  5. Is there a registration process to use Wisconsin e-file?

    There is no formal Wisconsin e-file registration process. You may use Wisconsin e-file if you are a Wisconsin full year resident, have a valid social security number and meet the qualifications.

  6. Does Wisconsin e-file limit the amount of time I have to complete and file my tax return?

    No. There is no limit. If you cannot complete your tax return, you can choose to save your return in a portable document format (PDF) to your PC or other storage device (disk, CD, etc.). Simply select "File" and "Save As" while using Wisconsin e-file. If you don’t choose to save your return to your PC or other storage device and you close out of Wisconsin e-file, your return will be lost and you will need to start your filing over.

  7. How do I move through/navigate Wisconsin e-file?

    You can move through and to your desired forms/fields within Wisconsin e-file by:

    • using your scroll bar to move from top to bottom or bottom to top of each page;
    • using Tab on your keyboard to go to the next field;
    • clicking your mouse pointer to a select field; or
    • using the arrow buttons on the toolbar to go from page to page.

  8. Do I need to have attachments when using Wisconsin e-file?

    Normally, you will not need to have attachments when using Wisconsin e-file.

    However, you must attach to your electronic filing a complete copy of your federal income tax return when you file a Wisconsin Form 1.

    If you claim a homestead credit, you must submit the required documents within 48 hours of filing.

  9. Can I still file my income tax return using Wisconsin e-file after April 15th?

    Yes. Wisconsin e-file will be available for you to use after April 15th. To avoid any late filing fees, you need to have a valid extension of time to file or qualify for a special condition for filing late; for example, filing late because of a presidentially-declared disaster. Please remember that you may be subject to interest, penalties and other fees imposed by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for late filing and nonpayment or late payment of your tax liability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
Electronic Filing Unit
Mail Stop 5-77
P.O. Box 8949
Madison, WI 53708-8949
Phone: (608) 264-6886
Fax: (608) 264-7776
E-Mail Additional Questions

Last updated January 14, 2009