Instructions

• 1). Gather all relevant financial records for the year, including tax forms you received from employers and financial institutions, such as W-2s and 1099s.
  
  
• 2). Visit pa.direct.file (see Resources below) and follow the instructions, if you want to file online. If you have not filed a state income tax return in Pennsylvania before, you will need to create an "e-signature account" by assigning yourself a user ID and password. If you have filed a tax return in Pennsylvania before, you may log in with your user ID or enter other identifying information like your Social Security number and driver's license number. If you do not want to use the Department of Revenue's website, many types of online tax preparation software also allow users to file federal and state taxes.
  
  
• 3). To file your taxes over the phone, first complete a Pennsylvania Telefile worksheet. If you filed a state tax return over the phone the prior year, you likely received a Fast File booklet in the mail, which contains the Telefile worksheet. If you did not, you can get one by calling 1-800-362-2050. You can also access it on the Department of Revenue's website. When you have completed the Telefile Worksheet, call 1-888-4PAFILE (1-888-472-3453) and follow the instructions to file your return.
  
  
• 4). If you would like to receive your refund or make tax payments electronically, provide the routing number and account number to a checking or savings account. You may also pay taxes using a credit card or debit card. If you would prefer to make your payment through the mail, send your check along with the PA-V voucher form. If you did not receive the PA-V in the mail, write the last four digits of your Social Security number, a daytime phone number, and "2009 PA-V" on your check.
  
  
• 5). Filing a return through the mail is still possible. You will need to complete the PA-40 form and mail your return, and a check if you owe taxes, to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.