Electronic filing (e-file) Definition
The transmission of tax information directly to the IRS using telephones or computers. Electronic filing options include (1) TeleFile using a touch-tone telephone, (2) Online self-prepared using a personal computer and tax preparation software, or (3) using a tax professional. Electronic filing may take place at the taxpayer's home, a volunteer site, the library, a financial institution, the workplace, malls and stores, or a tax professional's place of business.