Sometimes it is better to mail your taxes in

**MissSeetonFan** · 02-07-2012, 03:30 PM

Just a heads up for anybody doing federal taxes: sometimes it is better to mail it in. We have to submit documents outside the normal ones that can be electronically generated. Before we e-filed, we had the thought that we should figure out which would be best. Sending all supporting documents with your return via the mail may get you your money faster than e-filing and having to follow up with the missing documents later.

The delays with e-filing, IRS review, then having them tell you to send the document on, then review again can delay the resolution of your case for up to 3 months. Mailing is still a lengthy wait - 6-8 weeks - but that is preferable to waiting much longer.

**MaryCarney** · 02-07-2012, 05:15 PM

Good advice - thanks!

**Preston** · 02-12-2012, 01:42 PM

Not to mention another variable I deal with -- there a glitch somewhere in the gov't computers with my SSN not matching my birthdate somewhere. I have tried numerous times to get it resolved but nothing ever fixes it so I just deal with it. We paper file to get around this since efililng never goes through. I also gives me reassurance because it's a yearly ritual to walk to the post office to drop them off and pretty much the only time I buy stamps. Kind of a 'taxes are over' tradition.

**gmarie** · 02-13-2012, 08:10 PM

This happened to me as well, my brilliant mother knew the date on my original birth certificate was wrong but got my social security number w/o getting it fixed first. Had no idea until I tried to e-file 25 years later. That was fun to fix. Apparently crossed out dobs on birth certificates are not acceptable - you think the dr would know that. ;-) You will need to ask the SS Admin. to verify your data in writing and then go to the SS office and deal with it in person.

**miss_cas** · 02-13-2012, 09:28 PM

Also, some of the state e-file options available from irs.gov using contracting companies are inaccurate or require a payment of which you are not informed until after you spend the time filling it out. Go to your states' department of revenue site to do your state forms or mail them in.

**Telephus44** · 02-13-2012, 09:36 PM

This is me being frugal - but I always use the tax prep software that comes with free federal e-file, but they charge $10-$20 for e-file for the state. Since I can mail them in for $3, I do that instead to save money, LOL :-)