Tax Preparation Software

• If you use a tax preparation software package to complete your taxes, that package should include an option to do a rapid file of your taxes by filing electronically. If you file your taxes electronically you can have your refund from the IRS within seven to 10 business days, instead of waiting weeks for a paper check or direct deposit to arrive. When you shop for a new tax software package, make sure it includes the option to e-file from your home computer.
  
  

Free File Program

• If your income for 2011 is less than $58,000, you could qualify to e-file your taxes for free. This federal free tax-filing program includes access to a number of tax preparation software packages, allowing you to file your taxes for free from the comfort of your home computer. You can check the full qualifications for the Federal Free File program by going to the IRS Free File website.
  
  

Fillable Forms

• If you made more than the 2011 income limit of $58,000, you can still take advantage of electronic filing by using the fillable e-forms provided by the IRS. Once you bring these forms up, you can simply type your income and deduction information directly into them. Once you have completed the forms, you need to file your return: You can simply follow the instructions on the website to file your return and take advantage of the rapid refund program.
  
  

Prepare Your Documents

• No matter which method you use to e-file your taxes and get a rapid refund, it helps if you have all of your income information and tax paperwork in front of you before you begin. If you derive income from several sources, such as wages, interest and dividends, separate the tax forms you received into piles according to income type. That makes it easier to complete not only the 1040 form but the schedules that you need to report interest, capital gains, dividends and other types of income. Even if you have only wage income, you should make sure you have all your W-2 forms available before you start filling out the forms or using your tax software.