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This section describes the use of three core channels for filing tax data:

  1. eFiling - this includes: e-File which allows tax agents to file tax returns online, and ir-File which enables employers to send their employer monthly schedules securely to Inland Revenue online.

  2. Online filing using myIR Secure Online Services - this includes all online filing except for the eFiling methods mentioned above, and.

  3. Paper-based filing - this includes all physical filing.

The data for these statistics is available for download from the links at the bottom of the page.

Graph of returns by filing channel - 2016 tax year

The graph shows the proportion of returns (eleven separate return types) filed for the 2016 tax year by filing channel (eFiling, online and paper-based).

The graph shows the proportion of returns (eleven separate return types) filed for the 2016 tax year by filing channel (eFiling, online and paper-based).

The following patterns are evident:

  • mainly eFiling - IR4J, IR6, IR7, IR4, IR3
  • 55% Online, 34% paper-based and 11% eFiling - GST101
  • two-thirds eFiling and one thirds paper-based - IR345, IR348
  • 60% paper-based and 40% eFiling - IR526
  • half Online and half paper-based - IR420
  • completely paper-based - IR15P.
Last updated: 28 Apr 2021
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