Yes, it is perfectly legal and acceptable to file a paper tax return, but it is generally discouraged by the IRS (.gov). Paper filing takes significantly longer to process and delays refunds, often by six weeks or more. E-filing is safer, faster, and more accurate, but paper remains a valid option.
There is no change to the filing method of paper tax returns; see File by Paper. For other documents, except POA declarations and TIA forms, filed with us that require original signatures, we will accept: A photocopied, faxed, or scanned copy of the signature page with original signatures.
Before you file
You should determine if you need to file your income tax return using a paper return. Most people can complete their return using certified tax software and send electronically using the NETFILE service. If you cannot use NETFILE, you can print and mail your completed return.
Although the IRS encourages taxpayers to submit their returns electronically, you can still file a paper tax return. And thanks to its paperless processing initiative, the IRS now digitally processes all paper-filed tax and information returns.
The biggest tax mistakes people make include filing late, math errors, incorrect personal info (like Social Security numbers), forgetting deductions/credits (like EITC), misreporting income, not signing forms, and making errors with bank details for direct deposit, all leading to delays, penalties, or missed savings, with using tax software or professionals helping avoid these common pitfalls.
Avoid These Common Tax Mistakes
Even though e-Filing may seem like a simpler process, paper filing might have less potential security risks than e-Filing. Paper filing allows you to avoid entering personal information on the internet. Information such as your name, address, and Social Security number could be at risk when electronically filing.
The Disadvantages of Paper Filing
Paper filing takes longer to process since it requires postage. Unlike e-filing, which takes a few days, paper filing might take weeks. Also, refunds can take up to six weeks to arrive after filing taxes.
However, when you mail your return, your data won't be encrypted. And given some areas of the US have experienced an increase in mail theft with traditional blue drop USPS mailboxes, it's best to drop your return in person at the post office. Requesting a tax refund via paper check also comes with risk.
Consider filing online
Filing online is fast and secure, and returns are generally processed within two weeks. On the other hand, it may take up to eight weeks to process a paper return. To file online, you can use the CRA's NETFILE service as early as February 24, 2025.
For a $70,000 income in Canada (using 2025 rates), you'll pay roughly $13,000 to $20,000 in total taxes (federal, provincial, CPP, EI), depending on your province, resulting in a take-home pay around $50,000-$59,000, with federal tax around 14.5% or 20.5% depending on the portion, plus provincial tax and deductions like CPP and EI.
In Canada, a $2,000 tax credit often refers to the Pension Income Amount (Line 31400) for seniors receiving eligible pension/annuity income, creating a $300 federal credit (15% of $2,000), or a provincial Training Tax Credit for Apprentices, like British Columbia's $2,000 for completing specific training levels, while other benefits like the GST/HST Credit or Disability Benefit offer amounts varying based on income and family situation, not a fixed $2,000 for everyone.
The IRS maintains that filing returns electronically can prevent mistakes and lower the odds of an audit. The error rate for a paper return is 21%. The error rate for returns filed electronically is 0.5%.
If you are filing a paper return, or need tax forms or schedules, you can get an income tax package online or by mail.
If you've filed by mail, you'll receive a letter stating that your tax return has been accepted. Until then, your return will be in “pending” status. State returns may take longer to be accepted, staying in “pending” status for several days.
March 2021 – IRS destroys 30 million paper-filed, informational tax returns.
If you electronically file (e-file) your tax return
E-filed tax returns are processed faster than paper ones, and so refunds come more quickly– sometimes within ten days if you ask for a direct deposit or 21 days if you ask to have a check mailed to you.
The IRS generally issues refunds within 21 days of e-filing, but paper-filed returns can take 6 to 8 weeks.
5 things to keep in mind before you file your tax returns this...
Misspelled names. Likewise, a name listed on a tax return should match the name on that person's Social Security card. Entering information inaccurately. Wages, dividends, bank interest, and other income received and that was reported on an information return should be entered carefully.
Rumors of a universal $ 3000 check from the IRS have gained traction on social media, but these claims are not true. As of 2025, there is no federal program authorizing a new $ 3000 stimulus, rebate, or automatic payment to all Americans.
Many are wondering if the Income Tax Department delays processing refunds if the refund amount is large, such as over Rs 50,000. According to income tax rules, there is no upper limit on refunds. Whether your refund is Rs 10,000 or Rs 1 lakh or even greater, it will be credited the same way.