Frequently asked questions about TELEFILE -- General

1. What is TELEFILE?
2. How does TELEFILE work?
3. I've used TELEFILE to file my return. When will I receive my refund?
4. When is a return that was filed using TELEFILE considered to be received by the CRA?
5. What are the benefits of using TELEFILE?
6. Is filing income tax information over the telephone secure and confidential?
7. Is there any cost involved to file a return using TELEFILE?
8. Can a prior year return be filed using TELEFILE?
9. My father received an invitation to use TELEFILE. In the past I have helped him complete his return and mail it to the CRA. Can I assist him in using TELEFILE to file his return?

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1. What is TELEFILE?
   TELEFILE is a free, secure service that allows you to send us return information electronically using a touch-tone telephone.
   
   
2. How does TELEFILE work?
   All you need is your social insurance number, your TELEFILE access code and a touch-tone telephone. It's just four easy steps:
   1. Complete your return.
   2. Call 1-800-959-1110.
   3. Enter your tax information using your telephone keypad.
   4. Confirm that you want to file the information as your tax return.
   
   
   
3. I've used TELEFILE to file my return. When will I receive my refund?
   Refunds can be processed in as little as eight business days. In fact, last year over 98% of taxpayers who used TELEFILE to file their tax returns received their refund within two weeks.
   
   
4. When is a return that was filed using TELEFILE considered to be received by the CRA?
   A return that was filed using TELEFILE is considered to be received by the CRA when the confirmation number is issued. This occurs when you answer yes to the question that asks you to confirm if the information you have provided should be filed as your income tax return.
   
   
   
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5. What are the benefits of using TELEFILE?
   TELEFILE is fast, secure, free, easy to use and is available seven days a week. TELEFILE cuts down income tax processing time and eliminates the need to mail in a tax return. The end result is faster tax refunds. TELEFILE also enables the CRA to reduce processing costs.
   
   
6. Is filing income tax information over the telephone secure and confidential?
   Yes. However, to ensure privacy while using TELEFILE, you should not use a cordless or cellular telephone, as this wireless technology can be easily intercepted or picked up by various electronic devices.
   
   
7. Is there any cost involved to file a return using TELEFILE?
   No. You do not have to pay to file your tax return using the TELEFILE option. To use TELEFILE you call a toll-free telephone number, which is accessible from anywhere in Canada and the continental United States.
   
   
8. Can a prior year return be filed using TELEFILE?
   No. TELEFILE is only designed to accept current year (2011) income tax returns.
   
   
9. My father is eligible to use TELEFILE. In the past I have helped him complete his tax return and mail it to the CRA. Can I assist him in using TELEFILE to file his return?
   Yes, as long as your father consents and provides you with all the necessary information, you can assist him in using TELEFILE to file his return.