Revenue Department reports record high number of taxpayers filed online in 2007

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) today announced a record high number of taxpayers chose to file online in 2007.  More than 2.7 million taxpayers took advantage of E-Filing through the IDOR website, a 7.4 percent increase over 2006.  In addition to making the filing process faster and more convenient for taxpayers, the E-filing option provides a significant cost savings to the state.  In 2007, IDOR saved more than $3.7 million in tax processing costs. 

"Every year more people discover the increased accuracy, confidence, convenience, and control of filing their taxes online. This year, we are also promoting E-Filing as a "Green" contribution to the environment. By cutting back on paper filing, we save trees and valuable state resources," said IDOR Director Brian Hamer.

In 2007, an increased number of taxpayers chose to direct deposit their refund, allowing them to get their refund within a week. Over 1.3 million taxpayers took advantage of the direct deposit option, an increase of 10.5 percent from 2006.

The Illinois Department of Revenue has enjoyed a consistent increase in electronic filers since the program began in 1991. In the 2008 tax processing season, the department aims to have at least half of all filers file online. IDOR continues to encourage taxpayers to file electronically on its website tax.illinois.gov or ask about E-Filing when they visit their tax preparer.

"The Department of Revenue is continually finding new ways to bring ease and efficiency for taxpayers," Hamer said. "We are in the process of developing a similar offering of electronic filing options for business taxpayers."