Taking yet another step to streamline operations and reduce costs, the Ohio Department of Taxation will no longer mail its income tax booklets.

Electronic filing has become the preferred method used by taxpayers in filing their Ohio income tax returns, with almost 80% of all Ohio tax returns filed electronically for taxable year 2010. These are the options available for tax filing year 2011:

I-File
Ohio I-File is a free filing service that guides you through a series of questions and information requests. Based upon the information you provide, I-File computes your refund or balance due, electronically submits the tax information, provides you with a transcript and gives you a filing confirmation number. See tax.ohio.gov.

e-file
IRS e-file is a way to prepare and file your own return electronically with the IRS and Ohio. More information, including a free federal e-filing program for qualified individuals, is available at www.irs.gov. You can also e-file through an approved, commercially available software program or you can have your return prepared and transmitted by an authorized tax professional. You may be required to pay fees to utilize these private services.

TeleFile
Fill out the TeleFile worksheet found at tax.ohio.gov or in the booklet, then use a phone to file your return. Enter all data requested and continue through completion of your return. TeleFile lines are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.