IRS computer problems shut down tax return e-file system

[alp227]

Source: AP

WASHINGTON (AP) — The IRS says it has stopped accepting electronically filed tax returns because of problems with some of its computer systems. The outage could affect refunds, but the IRS says it doesn't anticipate "major disruptions."

The agency on Wednesday experienced what it is calling a "hardware failure." The e-file system and the "where's my refund" service are among the affected areas.

The IRS says some systems will remain out of service at least until Thursday.

Taxpayers can continue to send electronic returns to companies that serve as middlemen between taxpayers and the IRS.

Read more: http://bigstory.ap.org/article/74c7190f3fd04f039d7c39105611c4ff/irs-computer-problems-shut-down-tax-return-e-file-system-0

[2naSalit]

1. Good thing it isn't mid April!

[Warpy]

2. No kidding

I didn't even get all my 1099s until the end of March last year, just in time to do my taxes on April Fool's Day, my traditional day to don the green eyeshade and start to crunch numbers.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

3. I remember the eyeshades.

And the long stream of calculator tape curling on the dining room floor.

But now? Warpy, they got apps for that.



I think the investment houses have until mid-February to send out the 1099-B forms.

[Warpy]

6. They do. Last year, the IRS hit them with a last minute change

and gave them an extension, but not us.

[mnhtnbb]

4. I just saw a 'friend' on fb

complaining that the feds no longer send blank tax forms to post offices and libraries. Her 76 yo husband
(legally blind and not computer literate) is moaning and groaning about not being able to get the forms.
I couldn't resist posting that my legally blind son does his own taxes --using TurboTax--and can then print
only the forms he needs when completed, or file on-line. I hope my 'friend' doesn't see this story or
there will be more complaining about the feds. Yes, she's a Republican. What a surprise.

[christx30]

5. You'd think he'd be

all over efiling.
One of the complaints I've seen from those people is the cost in labor time in preparing and doing taxes.

[CountAllVotes]

8. You can get the forms at ...

Try the local library!

Better yet, print the forms out that you need to complete from irs.gov. They are all right there -- every thing you need! If he is desperate, he call call the IRS (Taxpayer Service) and they will MAIL the forms to him. Yes they will!

[CountAllVotes]

7. Gave up on e-filing last year

After the TurboTax when up in smoke after buying a copy to e-file, I simply downloaded the two forms I need to fill out and file and mailed it in via the USPS.

It seems if you file like this (the olden way), you stand a lower risk of being audited! HA!

The only reason I bother to file is to declare a few paltry dividends, no Wall Street crap involved, so very straightforward and simple.

I'm back to doing things the old way again and saving a few $ as well.

Farewell e-filing, I barely knew ye!