IRS Launches First Smartphone Apps
The IRS announced it has released its first smartphone application, IRS2GO. The app allows people to check their refund status, get daily tax tips, and follow the IRS news feed on Twitter all through their Apple or Android platform smartphones.
To check a refund status, users will need their social security number, filing status, and expected refund amount from their 2010 tax return. Per the IRS website, sensitive information such as social security numbers will be masked and encrypted for security. If you e-file your return you can use the app to check the status of your refund within 72 hours of the IRS’s acceptance of the return. Paper filers will have to wait 3-4 weeks.
The app will also let users subscribe to Tax Tips. The IRS issues tax tips daily during the filing season and periodically during the rest of the year. The tips are designed to be easy to understand and provide users with information on tax planning and preparation.
Finally, if you are so inclined, you can follow the IRS Twitter news feed, @IRSnews. The Twitter feed provides the latest news, tax law changes, and information on IRS programs in short, timely messages.
The app is free and can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or the Android Marketplace.