Tax e-File FAQ: Navigation and Use eSmart Tax Online Tax Software

How to use the unique and easy, form-based eSmartTax Online application?

How does form-based data entry work?  (back to top)

  • eSmart Tax Online is different from the typical Interview type of tax software. You work with only the forms you need and it is quick, easy, clear and complete. The lines and forms in our software correspond exactly to the official tax forms and lines.
  • You start it as if you are filling out a paper 1040. If you need any related form at any line, you can click Edit to access the related tax form. For example, if you traded stocks and need to include Schedule D, at line 13, you can click Edit to prepare Schedule D. After it is completed, the result is automatically linked back to line 13 for you to continue. The preparation process is extremely clear and intuitive. You know exactly what you are doing.
  • All computations, tax tables and rules are integrated into eSmart Tax Online to make preparation easy. We even included line by line instructions to explain each entry. eSmart Tax Online is the best tool available to prepare and e-file your tax return.

How do I navigate in eSmart Tax Online?  (back to top)

  • eSmart Tax Online has 6 major sections shown on the top of each page to indicate where you are in the preparation process.
  • The left hand side path and the small red arrow indicate where you are within current, active section.
  • You can jump to any point in your tax return that you have already completed. However, if you jump backward and change anything, you need to click through the return again by clicking Next on every page to make sure all computations and rules are checked.

I need to attach a form to the return. How do I find a particular form?  (back to top)

When you are working on a Federal Return, look for the Form Location bar on the upper left corner of the screen. Click on the pull-down menu and select the form you are looking for. A new pop-up window will appear and provide you with the purpose and the location of the form.

I received several W2 and/or1099 forms, how do I add multiple W2s or other tax Statements?  (back to top)

  • After you have loaded your tax return, click the Tax Statement section located at the top of the page. When the page showing all of the tax statements appears, check the ones you want to add and click Next.
  • Use the Add New button to add multiple records like W2 and1099-misc formsthat would require that you include multiple entries.

Can I start my return now and complete it later?  (back to top)

Once you have started an eSmart return, our system will save your information automatically. If you are interrupted for any reason, you can simply log back into your account, find your saved return and continue.

How do I continue from where I left off last time?  (back to top)

All of the information and tax returns you prepared are saved in your account under Saved Returns. Click Load to retrieve the tax return and click the sections listed on the top or those listed on the path on the left-hand side to continue.

How do I delete the tax returns in my account?  (back to top)

  • If a tax return has been e-filed and accepted by the IRS, you can't delete it because we are required to keep it for record.
  • If a return has not been e-filed, you can delete it from your account by clicking the Delete button.
  • Once deleted, you will not be able to retrieve the information anymore.

How do I sign and submit my return to e-file?  (back to top)

There are two ways to sign your e-filed tax return.

  • Electronic signature - Enter any 5-digit number of your choice and the exact amount of Adjusted Gross Income from your previous year's tax return. IRS will verify the exact amount before accepting your return.
  • Mail a signed 8453-OL form - Although your tax return is sent electronically, if you do not know the exact AGI from last year, you need to mail a form 8453-OL with your signature to verify that you have e-filed. This does not delay your return or refund processing but is required to close the e-file cycle.
  • Submitting a State return typically follows the Federal requirements. More information is available in the FAQs about electronic signature.

I have already completed my return. How do I submit it for e-file?  (back to top)

  • Click Proceed to e-file after you have completed your return.Be sure to review the summary information carefully, then submit.
  • You will then be directed to your shopping cart and checkout process, which will includedetails of your e-file and payment information.
  • Upon completion, you will see an order number and you will be able to print the return for your record.

How do I know I have successfully e-filed my return?  (back to top)

  • Once you have gone through the checkout process and submitted your return, you should check your account to make sure the status of your return is Submitted. At this point you can load and view the return, but you can't change it. Think of it as having just dropped your return into a mailbox.
  • You should receive an e-mail confirmation from us about your e-file submission and another e-mail in 3 days about the result.
  • You can check the e-file status 24/7 online in your account. If you do not receive any e-mail or see a change in status after 6 days, you should contact us through the Message Center or the support e-mail.

I have just e-filed, but found a mistake. What should I do?  (back to top)

  • Submitting your e-file is basically the same as dropping your return in a mailbox. You can't take it back or change anything.
  • There is a very short time, however, between the time you submit and when your return is processed. During this time you’ll see a unique Cancel button on the screen. While this button is displayed you can cancel filing your return. If you do not see the button, then you will have to wait for the e-file result.
  • If the IRS or your State rejects your return for any error, you’ll be notified and will be able to revise and resubmit. If it is accepted by the IRS or State, then you will need to file an amended return to make changes.

Should I mail in my W2’s, 1099’s, or returns after I e-file?  (back to top)

  • Once you have e-filed through our website, you do not have to mail out any of your tax forms or schedules. Your return and attached forms will be electronically sent to the IRS.
  • Do not mail out any tax forms or schedules unless you are requested by the IRS or State to do so.
  • Please continuously check online to view the status of your returns. You will also receive an automatic e-mail once your return is accepted or rejected by the IRS.

eSmart Tax helped us get a bigger refund.