BARCODE Efficiency Act
IRS: Scanning Paper Tax Returns
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- This bill requires tax software to add a scannable barcode to tax returns that are printed out and mailed. When the IRS receives these paper forms, they would scan the code to instantly turn the information into digital data instead of typing it in by hand.
- For returns written by hand or letters sent through the mail, the IRS would be required to use digital scanning technology that can read text. This tool turns physical documents into digital files, which is much faster and more accurate than having employees type the information manually.
- The goal is to help the IRS process tax returns and respond to mail much faster. Right now, paper documents can cause major backlogs because they require a lot of manual work, which often delays tax refunds for people who do not file electronically.
- The new rules would start for individual income tax returns on January 1 of the first year that is at least six months after the bill becomes law. Other types of taxes, like those for estates or gifts, would have up to two years to switch to the new system.
Impact Analysis
Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.
Milestones
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 434.
The bill is now on the schedule for the full chamber to consider. It's in line for debate and a vote.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Ways and Means. H. Rept. 119-508.
Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute by the Yeas and Nays: 42 - 0.
The committee approved this bill and is sending it to the full chamber for a vote. This is a significant step — most bills never get this far.
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
News
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Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
BARCODE Efficiency Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(1)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.