Easley Unveils Free E-File Program

Despite some criticism of Easley on this blog, everyone once in a while he reminds us that is good to have a Democrat that cares about people as governor. This time it is the anouncement of a program to allow individuals with incomes up to $50,000 to file their state income tax return free online. From WXII:

Gov. Mike Easley announced that, for the first time, many North Carolina taxpayers will be able to file their state tax returns electronically at no cost.

He cited Free E-File, a partnership between the Department of Revenue and two online tax filing companies. People previously had to purchase their own software and pay a related online filing fee.

"Free E-File will make preparing tax returns simpler and faster," said Easley. "This electronic option offers an efficient alternative to paper filings, and the new partnership will make it easier and more affordable for taxpayers to file online."

Two private companies, TaxEngine.com and Tax$imple, will provide access to free Internet tax preparation software and will file returns free for taxpayers who qualify. The service is available to taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of up to $50,000.