Georgia taxpayers can use any

of the following methods to file electronically: have their taxes prepared

the Internal Revenue Service; via telephone; or online using a personal

computer.

Individuals who are potentially

eligible to file by telephone will automatically receive TeleFile booklets

from the IRS and the state of Georgia. Goolsby explained that "the

booklets cannot be requested and individuals cannot file by telephone

without the IRS TeleFile booklet."

This year, Georgia taxpayers

can electronically file their original state return separate from their

federal return. However, the federal return must be filed before the state

return is filed. Previously, electronic filing required the federal and

state returns to be filed simultaneously.

Also new this year is free

Internet filing for qualifying taxpayers. Additional information and access

to the tax preparation software is available on line at either www.irs.gov

or www.firstgov.gov. "Electronic filing offers an accurate, secure

and fast alternative to paper filing," Goolsby concluded.

Individuals needing assistance

with either their electronic or paper return can contact one of the Department's

11 regional offices, visit the DOR Web site at www.gatax.org, or call

404-417-4477 within the metro Atlanta area. Outside the metro area, call

877-602-8477.