IRS2Go tracks your tax returns

The new IRS refund status app released by the IRS has very limited functionality, and merely is a replacement for the IRS phone number which is needed for any taxpayer to get the status of your refund. In other words, it only gives you access to your account, gives you your IRS refund status and also emails you tax content.IRS2Go is the name of this app.

This IRS refund status app replaces a computerized recording that would inform you of your refund status or access to a human if you were able to speak to someone. So don’t have any high hopes of this app having great Web 2.0 technology that might let you scan your W-2 to the IRS instead of filing Form 1040EZ or 1040A. If you e-file your return, you can check your IRS refund status within a few days. If you file a paper tax return, you will have to wait three to four weeks to check your IRS refund status.

This IRS refund status app contains the following options/functionality(if you want to call it functionality) "Get Your Refund Status," "Get Tax Updates," "Follow Us" and "Contact Us" options. By signing up for tax updates provided by the Internal Revenue Service you will automatically get daily tax tips that are helpful and written in plain English. Tax tips can help you with your tax planning and preparation needs. Consider using the free and helpful content that the IRS offers before your undertake to prepare your tax return. The tax updates are not in legal jargon, but rather in plain English. Tax updates are sent by email, rather than residing in the app or in some type of FAQ format or simple database. They should ask Google about integrating some of their IRS instructions and publications into Google Reader while providing the taxpayer relevant content specific to the taxpayer’s particular tax situation. I am sure Google would love that. Wouldn't it be great if the IRS could match relevant content based on the taxpayers prior or current preliminary tax filing by giving them relevant content, that they might otherwise not have, and how much mileage Google would get if they worked with the IRS was able to provide this service.. Another thoght, should Google replace the current IRS email system with Gmail and then write code for Google Reader to integrate with this IRS refund status app.

The IRS website says that privacy and security are paramount and there is brief privacy notice in the app. The IRS website says that your information will be masked and encrypted for security purpose. Until we learn more about the security certifications who knows if phone carriers will be able to see your filing status and refund data and how secure is you SS # that you just entered into your app to access your account. ? So don't lose your smartphone,because someone else may be able to see your tax information? If you are concerned about privacy then use the phone or check our the security features offered by the online tax preparation company that you use to file your tax return.

Despite my comments, the IRS refund status app is a huge step for the IRS to automate the refund checking process and will save taxpayers time resulting from calling the IRS phone number. Many online tax preparation services provide a web based service for your to file your tax return online and provide a free refund tracking service which enables you to monitor your IRS refund status from their website. You can see my review of four well known ontime tax preparation services companies at www.1040Easyonline.com

To File Freefrom the IRS website, your adjusted gross income must be $58,000 or less otherwise you will have to pay a fee to use an online tax preparation service, some of whom offer great deals. iphone and Android users file early and get that refund working for you and track it using the IRS refund status app.If you don't have one of these smart phones than you may be able to use the software that you used to file your tax return.

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