I have been using e file for the past several years. We got my DH W-2 form 1/31. I sat down right then and there and filed our taxes. I got my state refund back 2/5 and my federal 2/12! Next year I will have to itemize deductions. I will still e- file but I'm not sure if it will qualify for free federal return. I have to pay for the state return but it's only $10. It's worth it because of how easy it is. I use the same company so all of our info is always kept and aotomatically put in the lines they need to go in.