Tax e-file FAQ: General Questions about eSmart Tax Online Tax Software e-file Services

Why and what do I need to e-file my tax return?

Why e-file? What are the benefits?  (back to top)

  • e-filing your return using eSmart Tax is quick, easy, convenient, accurate and cost-effective.
  • Your completed and accepted e-file will receive an IRS confirmation.
  • If you are owed a refund and use Direct Deposit, you can typically receive your refund within one week of the acceptance of your return. The IRS processes refunds once a week.

Will my computer and Internet work with eSmart Tax?  (back to top)

Any computer that can connect to the Internet with a browser that supports 128-bit SSL encryption should work. eSmart Tax works best with the Microsoft Internet Explorer browser.

What do I need to prepare my return and e-file?  (back to top)

  • A computer, Internet access and a browser that supports 128-bit SSL encryption.
  • Gather all of your tax statements, W2, 1099-misc, 1099-Int, etc. and all deductible information, mortgage interest payment, charitable contributions, expense receipts, etc. before beginning to prepare your return.
  • A printer is preferred so that you can print your tax return or payment voucher if required. If not, you can save a digital copy of your return and print it later.

How do I know if my browser supports 128-bit encryption?  (back to top)

If you use Internet Explorer, at the top tool bar, under Help, there is an About Internet Explorer description showing the version number and cipher strength 128-bit, etc.

How are the security and privacy of my information protected?  (back to top)

  • IRS regulations require that tax return information only be used for the purpose of preparing and completing an e-file of your tax return.
  • eSmart Tax does not disclose nor share your information with any 3rd party or outside organization.
  • eSmart Tax implements 128-bit encryption, and firewall protection to secure all tax information and communication with us. We enforce strict company policies that protect your information at all times.

Can I prepare and e-file multiple tax returns from my account?  (back to top)

Yes, you can prepare and e-file returns for yourself, spouse, children, parents or friends if they trust you with their information.

I am a tax preparer, can I use eSmart Tax?  (back to top)

You are welcome to use eSmart Tax, but we no longer offer multi-file licenses for tax professionals. eSmart Tax is now a part of the Liberty Tax Service family so if you are a professional that is looking to grow your tax business, please contact Steve Lepkowski at steve@libtax.com or 1-800-790-3863 to learn about our franchise opportunities.

What happens once I complete and submit my return for e-file?  (back to top)

  • Once your return is submitted, you can check the e-file status in your account to confirm that we have received your submission.
  • You will also receive an e-mail confirmation. If your e-file payment by credit card or e-check fails, you will need to resubmit payment information before we process your e-file.
  • Typically, we process and send the data to the IRS within 24 hours.
  • We then retrieve the result, process and post it back to your account in the following 24-48 hours. An e-mail will also be sent to you about the e-file result.
  • If your return is rejected for any reason, you can revise and resubmit. From that point, the 2-3 day e-file cycle will repeat.

eSmart Tax helped me save time.