FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Listed below are some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) that should help address any questions or issues that may arise during the interview process.  You will also find helpful information and links on many of the Forms and Schedules you will encounter during the process.  It is important that you make every effort at completing your return accurately prior to submitting it to the IRS or your State authority, as applicable, for their review.

In addition to the listing below, the IRS provides an extensive list of FAQ's and information related to various tax topics that may be useful in preparing your return which, you can access from the following links:

IRS FAQ's
Tax Topics

Note:  RepublicTax does NOT provide tax advice under any circumstance.  Should you need additional assistance you should contact a tax professional for guidance.

General e-filing questions:

E-filing instructions:

Tax form questions:

Change, correct, and/or resubmit your return:

Refund information:

Information about state tax returns:

What is e-filing and what are the benefits?

E-filing (electronic filing) is a quick, easy and cost effective alternative to the traditional method of completing and mailing your tax returns. When you e-file your return(s) through us, the information is transmitted to the IRS and your State as applicable.

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Are you authorized by the IRS as an e-file provider?

Yes! Prior to being authorized by the IRS, our software underwent extensive IRS testing prior to being released to process e-file returns.

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What is your fee for e-filing?

You will be charged $17.76 for each federal return you submit at the end of the e-filing process, as applicable. The fee for all State returns is $18.88. A federal/state combo is available for a discounted $33.33.  All fees are earned once you submit and is not determined by either the acceptance or rejection of your tax return.

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What will I need in order to prepare and e-file my return?

You will need to gather all of your tax statements, W2 and 1099 forms as well as your deductible statements that may include your mortgage payment summary, expense receipts, charitable giving receipts and any other information typically used in preparing your tax returns. You will also need a printer if you would like to print a copy of your tax return or payment voucher (if required) to maintain for your own records.

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Is my information secure on your website?

Maintaining the confidentiality of your tax return is very important to us. Our website utilizes the Premium Extended Validation SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocol to assure that your information is securely transmitted over the Internet and have retained McAfee Secure (formerly HackerSafe) for additional security. We do not sell your information and only share required data to authorized persons or entities and to 3rd party’s that offer services to you that you have accepted.

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Where may I obtain a copy of your privacy policy?

To view a copy of our Privacy Policy select the "privacy policy" link located on the toolbar of each page.

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How may I contact you?

It is likely that the solution to your question or issue may be found in this extensive FAQ listing (Frequently Asked Questions) section of the website. In addition, you will find helpful links throughout the site to assist you as you complete each portion of the interview.

In addition to the FAQ library, you may want to visit the IRS website for specific information relative to your inquiry by clicking here.

If you are unable to resolve your issue or specific question, you can click this CONTACT US link for assistance. We will make every effort to respond to your inquiry within 24 hours.

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How may I contact the IRS?

In the event that you have specific questions or need additional tax information you may want to access the IRS website.

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Do I have to mail in any forms to the IRS when I e-file?

Do not mail your W-2's, 1099s or any other documents to the IRS or us if you are e-filing your return unless specifically directed. However, you should keep all your records in case of an IRS request. The IRS will contact you directly by mail to request your records. Please reply in a timely manner as your refund may not be issued until the IRS has received and reviewed the requested documentation.  The IRS does not request information by email.

I need tax advice. How can you help me?

We do NOT provide tax advice under any circumstance. If you need additional guidance in completing your tax return you should contact a tax adviser to assist you. Or, you can view the IRS guidelines for the completion of certain tax forms by logging in and selecting the FORM INSTRUCTIONS links located on forms and schedules within our website. This information is provided by the IRS to assist taxpayers with questions on specific Forms and schedules that are needed for completing their Federal Tax Returns. You may also want to visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov for additional assistance.

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What if I am audited by the IRS?

If you are concerned about being audited by the IRS our Audit Assistance Program (AAP) is available for purchase at submission of your return. The AAP lets you rest easy as a CPA will represent you and the expense up to $2,500 is handled too for only $39.99.  If you are audited a CPA or Tax Attorney should be consulted. Typically, the fees for representing you to the IRS range between several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, which is why the Audit Assistance Program (AAP) is reasonably priced at $39.99.

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May I change my login information once I have registered?

As a security precaution for your personal data, once you have registered using an email address, it cannot be changed. However, you are able to create multiple returns under the same logon. If you wish to register again, you must enter another email address, but previously used primary SSNs can only be used one time. It is important to save the user (email) and password in a safe and secure location. If you have lost your password, a "request a password" link is available on the registration page.

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What if I have lost or can't remember my username or password?

A request a new password link is located on the registration page. Once the information entered has been verified, your password will be sent to your tax return registered email (user).  It is important that you record this information in a safe place. For security purposes, your password cannot be changed.

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What if I encounter a problem with the website?

Our website has undergone extensive testing and should not experience any technical issues while preparing your online tax return. However, should you encounter any difficulties, you may want to close all browsers, empty your Cache and start again to see if that eliminates the issue you are experiencing. Further, we may experience a temporary downtime to install updates and changes to our software program. We monitor the website at all times to ensure adequate bandwidth for your to move through the tax program at your preferred pace.

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Once you have registered with us, you will proceed through an extensive interview to assure that you enter all required information needed to complete the federal portion of your return. The interview consists of the following sections: Basic Information, Income Items, Income Adjustments, Credits/Deductions, Payments, Calculation Review and Final Review. Throughout the interview you will be given an opportunity to review/edit your previous entries. You will also be able to access the completed portions of the interview from the toolbar tabs at the top of the page throughout the website. Note: Neither your federal or state return(s) will be submitted until you choose to do so at the end of the interview by selecting the "process return" button.

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Can I file more than one return on your website?

Yes! You may prepare and e-file returns not only for yourself but also for your spouse, child, parents or anyone else who trusts you with their information. However, you are NOT allowed to register using the same Social Security Number more than once. Further, our program is for individual use only and not intended for use by tax preparers.

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Do I have to complete my return in one visit?

No. You may access your account as many times as necessary in order to complete your return. You will simply need to login each time you return to the site. The information you have previously entered will be stored in your account through your last selection of the "save/continue" button located at the bottom of each page.

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Do I have to mail any forms to the IRS?

No, with one exception. If you file Form 8283, Non Cash Charitable Contributions, Form 8453 is required to be mailed. If the IRS wants any documentation from you it will be requested by mail.  The IRS does not request information by email.


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Can I print a copy of my Federal and State tax returns when they are completed?

Yes. Once your return has been ACCEPTED by the IRS, your federal return is available on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page, located on the Main Menu. Once your return is Accepted a copy will be posted underneath the 'options' tab on this page. 

Your State return is available for print at the time of submission and is available on the "Check Your Return Status" page once 'accepted' by the State.

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Can I print my return on the actual IRS forms?

Yes, we provide a printed copy of the IRS forms once your return has been ACCEPTED by the IRS; however, it is NOT SUITABLE FOR MAILING and the IRS will NOT ACCEPT our forms as a mailed return. The print available is an acceptable copy for your records.

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Can I get a copy of my 2008 Federal return that I filed through CitizenTax?

If you 2008 return was accepted by the IRS and was e-filed through Citizentax last season, click the link below to access your 2008 return. A fee of $8.88 will be applicable. Also, a link contact the IRS for a copy of your 2008 return. The IRS charges $57 for a copy.

2008 CitizenTax Federal Return

Contact IRS for a copy of your prior year return


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What federal tax forms do you support for e-filing?

Please click the "Forms Supported" link on the homepage to view the federal forms that we currently support. Please note that some forms are only partially supported.

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What if you do not support a form I need for my return?

You will need to file by another method in the event we do not support all of the federal forms that you need to complete your return.
 
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Do you provide instructions for completing certain tax forms?

We can assist you with software questions, but do not provide tax advice under any circumstance. Also, you can view the IRS guidelines for the completion of certain tax forms by logging in and selecting the FORM INSTRUCTIONS tab located within each form and schedule throughout the website. This information is provided by the IRS to assist taxpayers with questions on specific Forms that are needed for completing their Federal Tax Returns.

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How do I determine my filing status?

Your filing status is used in determining whether you are eligible to claim certain other deductions and credits. Information & links to assist you in determining your filing status are located in the Basic Information section in the software program and below:

The five filing statuses are:
  • Single,
  • Married Filing Jointly,
  • Married Filing Separately,
  • Head of Household, and
  • Qualifying Widower with Dependent Child.

If more than one filing status applies to you, choose the one that will give you the lowest tax. If additional assistance is needed in determining your filing status click here.

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Who may I claim as a dependent on my return?

Identifying the individuals who qualify for your dependent exemptions is usually pretty simple. In general, individuals who depend on you for support and lived in your house for more than 6 months during the tax year qualify for dependent tax exemptions. However, there are some exceptions when an exemption status is more complicated. The IRS has special rules for these situations. In most cases, children for whom you provide support and a home qualify as dependent exemptions. However, dependents do not always fall into this exact description. To claim a dependency exemption for a qualifying relative, the following dependency tests must be met:

  • The member of household or relationship test,
  • The citizen or resident test,
  • The joint return test,
  • The gross income test, and
  • The support test.

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Should I use the standard deduction or should I itemize?

Most taxpayers have a choice of either taking a standard deduction or itemizing their deductions. The standard deduction is a set dollar amount by the IRS that reduces the amount of income on which you are taxed. It is a benefit that eliminates the need for many taxpayers to itemize actual deductions, such as medical expenses, charitable contributions, and taxes, on Schedule A. The standard deduction is higher for taxpayers who are 65 or older or blind. If you have a choice, you can use the method that gives you the lower tax. For additional information regarding Standard/Itemized deductions click here.

The Schedule L is a new form for 2009, which will allow you to add 'real estate' taxes paid to your Standard Deduction IF you do not Itemize your deductions (Schedule A).  You may select either to Itemize your deductions or to use the Standard Deduction + the Schedule L, but not both. Choose the method that provides you the greatest benefit.

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What is the Earned Income Tax Credit and can I claim it on my return?

The earned income credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit for certain people who work and have earned income. The EITC calculation is auto-calculated by the software if you select to have your EITC benefit calculated. The EITC is calculation is based on several items included dependent child children and earned income - such as W2 and 1099 income. A tax credit usually means more money in your pocket. It reduces the amount of tax you owe. The EIC may also give you a refund.

Earned income and adjusted gross income (AGI) must each be less than:

  • $43,279 ($48,279 married filing jointly) with three or more qualifying children; 
  • $40,295 ($45,295 married filing jointly) with two qualifying children;
  • $35,463 ($40,463 married filing jointly) with one qualifying child;
  • $13,440 ($18,440 married filing jointly) with no qualifying children.

Tax Year 2009 maximum credit:

  • $5,657 with three or more qualifying children;
  • $5,028 with two qualifying children;
  • $3,043 with one qualifying child;
  • $457 with no qualifying children

Investment income must be $3,100 or less for the year.

The maximum Advance Earned Income Tax Credit (advance EITC) for TY 2008 the employer is allowed to provide throughout the year with the employee's pay is $1,826.

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Why has the IRS asked me to prove that I am entitled to claim EITC?

As part of random EITC testing, the IRS may ask you to provide documents to prove you are entitled to claim the EIC. The IRS will tell you what documents to send. These may include: birth certificates, school records, medical records, etc. They may also send you a letter with the name, address, and telephone number of the IRS employee assigned to your case. The process of establishing your eligibility will delay your refund. If you select to submit EITC during the software interview, your eligible EITC will be included in your E-file.

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Do I qualify to receive the Child Tax Credit?

With the Child Tax Credit (CTC), you may be able to reduce the federal income tax you owe by up to $1,000 for each qualifying child under the age of 17. The Child Tax Credit is not refundable and will only reduce your tax owed to zero. Therefore, depending on your personal situation, you may or may not receive the entire $1000 per qualifying child.

A qualifying child for this credit is someone who meets the following criteria:

  • Dependent - Is claimed as your dependent
  • Age - Was under age 17 at the end of 2009
  • Relationship - Is your son, daughter, adopted child, grandchild, stepchild or eligible foster child, your sibling, step-sibling or their descendant
  • Citizenship - Is a U.S. citizen or resident alien

For additional information on the CTC click here.

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Can I receive a credit for college tuition I've paid?

Yes, Form 8863 is avaliable to claim either the Hope or Lifetime Tuition Credits. Form 8917, Tuition and Fees deduction is available as well. You may choose one of these for each student, but not both.

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Do I qualify for a credit for my IRS or Qualified Plan contribution?

Maybe, the rules are complicated with many "if's and then's", but if you made contributions during 2009, complete Form 8880 and your credit will be auto-calculated, and if a credit is earned it will be included in your return.

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Can I claim a credit for the elderly or disabled?

Depending on your filing status and if your age is 65 or older, or if you are disabled you may qualify for this credit that is available on the Schedule R.

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I leave my children with a daycare when I'm working. Is there a credit available to help me with this expense?

Yes, Form 2441 offers a credit between 20% and 35% depending on your earned income.

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Do I owe Social Security and Medicare tax on my tip income?

Yes, you must file Form 4137 if you received cash and "charge tips" of $20 or more in a calendar month and did not report all your tips to your employer. You must also file Form 4137 if box 8 of your Form W2 shows allocated tips that you must report as income.

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I am under 59 1/2 and took an early distribution from my IRA or Qualified Plan. Do I owe additional tax on the distribution?

Yes, in most instances, a 10% penalty applies on the total amount of the distribution. The remaining 90% should be reported as taxable income. If you took an early distribution,  complete Form 5329 (Additional Tax on Qualified Plans, Including IRAs), which is located under #4 on the toolbar - Credits/Deductions.

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What happened to Form 8453-OL?

Form 8453-OL is no longer supported by the IRS. Each taxpayer must e-file their return using a PIN (Personal Identification Number) this season.  A PIN (token) link to the IRS is on the Signature page in the interview. Selecting this link will direct you an IRS webpage that will allow you to apply for the PIN (token). Once the PIN (token) is received from the IRS enter it in the '2009 PIN box' on the Signature page.

If you are not clear how a PIN works click here.  

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What is a PIN number and where do I get one?

A PIN is a self-selected Personal Identification Number. It may be obtained by contacting the IRS directly or selecting the Electronic Filing Help link.  Selecting the link or contacting the IRS by phone will require authentication information to verify your identity. Once verifed, a PIN (token) will be received to be entered in the 'current year PIN' box on the Signature page.   Accessing the IRS PIN link via the web should allow you to obtain your PIN (token) immediately.  Contacting the IRS by phone will have inherent delays; however, either method is acceptable for obtaining your PIN (token).

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If I do not want to request a PIN from the IRS am I able to enter my Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from 2008 as my e-Signature?

Yes! If you know your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from 2008 you may enter it in the AGI box on the Signature page. Enter whole dollars only and verify your AGI from your IRS accepted prior year tax return to ensure your return is not rejected by the IRS.   Either a PIN (token) or 2008 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) must match the IRS database for your e-file return to be accepted.  If you are unsure of your previous year AGI please click the Electronic Filing Help link and the IRS will assign you a PIN, which will ensure your return is not rejected for an incorrect e-signature.

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What is a DCN number and do I need it?

The DCN number will be assigned once your return has been submitted on our website. Each return is assigned a DCN upon submission and can be found on the 'check your return status' page.

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How can I file an extension for my 2009 tax return?

Form 4868 can be found on www.irs.gov.

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How do I read the information on the Check Your Return Status page?

The CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page provides all the information as to the status of your return. In addition to posting of Acceptance, Rejections, DCN numbers and print copies of your federal and state returns and links are provided to the IRS Reject Codes.

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What does my return status mean?

It provides the most up-to-date information concerning the status of your federal and state returns. An explanation of messages are posted on the "Check Your Return Status" page.

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My e-file status has not changed for over a week. What should I do?

Contact Customer Support through the CONTACT US link located in the "How May I Contact You" section in the FAQs above or by selecting the CONTACT US link on the toolbar.

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My status is DUPLICATE, what does that mean?

A duplicate return occurs when two or more returns using the same social security (SSN) number have been e-filed and the IRS is notifying you of this issue. In the IRS system, the first SSN transmission is accepted and all additional SSNs received by the IRS are rejected as a duplicate. The SSN acceptance may have been received from an e-file transmitter other than us. In most cases, a duplicate message means the return using that SSN has been accepted, but you will need to contact the IRS to confirm the status of your return. Once a duplicate message is received, the status of your message on the "Check A Return Status" page cannot change. Therefore, if you have further questions, you should contact IRS customer service at 800-829-1040.  Duplicate returns are not available for printing.

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Can I make changes to my return?

Once you have completed and submitted your return to the IRS, it can not be canceled or changed. If however, your return is rejected by the IRS and you are issued an Error/Reject Code, you can then login and make any changes necessary, then re-submit it to the IRS for their review. A link to the IRS Reject Codes are posted on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page, located on the Main Menu.

If your return has already been accepted by the IRS and you need to change any information, you will need to amend your return by completing Form 1040X and mailing it to the IRS. If however, you have not yet completed and submitted your return, simply login to your account and make any changes that are needed, complete the interview process and submit your return to the IRS.

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How can I check the status of my amended return?

You will need to contact the IRS assistance line at (800) 829-1040 to receive information on the processing of your amended return. Amended/corrected returns are processed as quickly as possible. However, it could take 8 to 12 weeks to process an amended return.

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Can I delete my information from your site if I choose not to e-file?

Yes. Should you choose not to e-file your return through our site, select the 'Check Your Return Status' link on the Main Menu page. The Delete option is available only if your return has not been completed and submitted by you or, if it was rejected by the IRS. Once you submit your return, do not delete it. If deleted, messages from the IRS and your State cannot be retrieved, the status of your return cannot be obtained and customer support will be unable to assist you.

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What if I e-file my return and it is rejected by the IRS?

It depends on the reason your return was rejected. A link to the IRS Reject Codes are posted on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page, located on the Main Menu.  Locate the number of your reject code(s) on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page (ignore the numbers in parenthesis) and scroll down the listing to determine the cause of the reject. Once the mistake is located, make the correction(s), select "save/continue" and proceed through 'process return' to resubmit.

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What is the most common mistake that causes a rejection by the IRS?

If you made a mistake in entering the Social Security Number, incorrect Last Name or Date of Birth for you or anyone entered in your return, it will cause your return to reject. Further, the IRS Reject Codes may reflect a problem with a Social Security Number only. However, the rejection noted by the IRS may not be an incorrect Social Security Number, but rather an incorrect Last Name or Date of Birth. If the information entered is correct, and your return is rejected, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. For general information about e-file, refer to Tax Topic 252, Electronic Filing. For a complete listing of IRS Error/Reject codes, please click here.

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Where is the rejected return information posted?

Information concerning the status of your federal and state return will be posted on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS link, located on the Main Menu.

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How do I correct my errors and re-submit my return to the IRS?

If a rejection notice is posted on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page, you will need to LOGON to your account and access the portion of your website that contains entries that must be corrected according to the IRS error/reject code(s). Once corrected and "save/continue" is selected, continue through the RESUBMIT button. Please allow 24 -48 hours for the IRS to review your return.

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Why was my return rejected because a dependent's Social Security Number being used more than once or on another return?

Unfortunately, you may need to file a paper return this year. Contact the IRS for instructions at 800-829-1040. Do not send any documents that are not required with your tax return. Whether the cause of this rejection is the result of a typo on another return or an attempt by another party to claim your dependent, the IRS has security measures in place to ensure the accuracy of returns submitted. In such cases, the IRS will question the dependency exemptions claimed by any other party using the wrong social security number.

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How long will it take to receive my refund?

Typically, your e-filed refund will be direct deposited or mailed 7-13 days after acceptance.  If you have not received your refund within 3 weeks after filing your return you can check your refund status by clicking on "Where's My Refund" on the IRS website then go to "Get My Refund Status" (after inputting the required data). Or, you can call the Refund Hotline at (800) 829-1954. Be sure to have available a copy of your current tax return because you will need to know your social security number shown on your return, the filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of your refund.

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When will the IRS mail or deposit my refund?

The IRS direct deposit refunds and mails refund checks on the second Friday following the acceptance of your E-filed return based on your selection prior to submission.

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How can I check on the status of my refund?

Refund information does not become available until it has been 3 weeks since you e-filed your tax return. Information concerning your current year refund may be obtained by selecting Where's My Refund or you can call Refund Hotline at (800) 829-1954. Be sure to have a copy of your current tax return available because you will need to know your social security number shown on your return, the filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of our refund. The IRS updates refund information every seven days.

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Can I change my refund option once my return is submitted to the IRS?

No. Once you have selected your refund method it may not be changed unless your return is rejected by the IRS. If rejected for any reason, you may LOGON and change the refund option.

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What if my e-filed refund amount and my deposited refund amount are different?

It is not unusual for the IRS to review and recalculate returns after they have been accepted. Typically, the IRS will notify you within 30 days after your altered refund or tax due has been either deposited or debited from your account.

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Can my refund be used to pay other debts?

Under the law, state and Federal agencies refer to the IRS the names of taxpayers who are behind in their support payments, taxes, and loans. Your tax refund may be reduced or not be refunded to you if you are delinquent in child or child and spousal support payments or have a past due Federal debt (such as a student loan). Therefore, all or part of your refund may be used to pay other debts you owe. For additional information, refer to Tax Topic 203, Failure to Pay Child Support and Other Federal Obligations.

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I owe the IRS money, can I pay by check?

Yes, select here for a Form 1040-V voucher suitable for mailing to the IRS or you can find the voucher on www.irs.gov.

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Which states do you support for e-filing?

Click the "States Supported" link on the homepage for a complete listing of the States we currently support.

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How do I complete my state return?

Once you have completed the federal portion of your return, you will be given the option of completing your state return. Once your federal return is submitted a "State" link will appear on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS page on an "Options" tab located next to your return status. Select this link, locate your State or States if your are a Part-Year on Non-Resident in a State other than your primary residence.  A portion of the entered information from your federal return will be populated from your previous entries on the federal portion of the interview that you previously completed. In some instances, you will be required to follow specific state form instructions or worksheets in order to accurately calculate your entries. It is your responsibility to follow all instructions specific to your state tax authority to make sure that your return is completed correctly. If you are e-filing more than one state with your federal return, a fee of $18.88 will apply to each state.

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What is the fee for e-filing my state return?

The fee for e-filing each state return is $18.88 and is non-refundable once E-filed.

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How do I check the status of my state return?

Once submitted, the status of your State return will appear on the CHECK YOUR RETURN STATUS link, located on the Main Menu.

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How do I e-file my state return?

Once your State is supported, select the "Check YOUR Return Status" link, located on the Main Menu. Once your federal return is submitted or accepted a "State" link will appear on an "Options" drop down tab next to your return. Select the link and your State from the list and continue through "process return".

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My state return was rejected, what do I do now?

If your return was not accepted by your State, select the "Check YOUR Return Status" link, located on the Main Men

u. A listing of your State reject code(s) will be posted on this page and a "Rejected" link will appear in the column for your State information. Select the link, your State and a link to your State reject codes are posted on the Information Page, which is located prior to entering your State return. Make the necessary changes and resubmit to your State tax authority. Your State instructions and other helpful information are posted at the top of the State form to assist you in accurately completing your return. Note: If your return was rejected without an error code - resubmit it.

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