There are many options on how to prepare and send your tax returns online, with help from the IRS and other guiding websites. But as certain and easy e-filing may seem, printing a physical copy and mailing it in might be a better option. Here's why:

• It is easier to proofread a physical copy. Personally speaking, printed copies are easier to read and correct than their online counterparts. You can make marks, highlight and write the correct information where necessary. This way, you know what's wrong, where it's wrong and (usually) what should go there. IRS audits have been on the rise in the past decade - simple reviewing and proofreading can save you time, money and worry.
• Track the mailing status of your tax return, and know that it was officially received. Whether it's the worry of losing my Internet connection at the very moment I electronically send my return to the IRS, and losing everything, or that some worker might accidentally delete it from the network with a single click, e-filing seems very flimsy to me. It might be a bit more expensive to send it via mail, but the security of knowing where my returns are and when they reach the final destination is worth it in the end. Don't know the address to send your federal tax return to? Check out Where to File Paper Tax Returns on the IRS website.
• If you choose to mail your tax return, it only needs to be postmarked by April 17. It is a common misconception that your filings have to be at the correct office BY April 17, 11:59PM. However, you only need to have the envelope postmarked by that date in order to qualify for being on-time. Just make sure you know what time your local post office closes!
• Printing one copy will prompt you to print a second copy for your records. As we fall into the Digital Age, it becomes easier and easier to just click SAVE for a document and feel safe in that saved copy. However, tragedy can strike and computer hard drives may be erased or lost forever (knock on wood, of course). It is important to keep records of your past tax returns, should anything go amiss or you need the information for the coming years. When you print one copy of your return, it is simple to print one more and file it away in a secure place. If you don't have a copy of last year's returns, here is how you can get it.
• Most tax return filing software offer detailed instructions on filing a paper return by mail. The resource is already at hand, and the benefits can be greater than e-filing. Use what you have.

If all else fails, you can always file for a tax extension. They are due on the same day as tax returns (April 17th) and give you an extra six months to file your actual return.