First Time Filers

Note: You cannot use MyTax Illinois unless there is a prior year IL-1040 return on file with us. 

If this is your first year filing an Illinois income tax return, there are a couple of options available to you.

• To file online, use IRS Direct File, a tax professional or tax preparation software.* You will need a valid Illinois driver’s license or an Illinois identification card. The information you enter must match exactly what is on your card.  Note: If the information from your Illinois driver's license or Illinois identification card does not match what is on record with the Illinois Secretary of State or if you have recently obtained either your Illinois driver's license or Illinois identification card, you will need to file your first return via paper.
• To file a paper return, you can download the tax return from our website. Instructions for completing the return are also available for download. 

*Note: You cannot file your return using MyTax Illinois, IDOR’s free online account management program. After you file your first return, you will be able to use MyTax Illinois to file the following tax year and you will also be able to create a MyTax Illinois account to respond to letters, file returns, and make payments on your Illinois individual account.

Note: If you are a first time filer and due a refund, you will receive it by paper check.

Basic items and information you will need when you file:

• Your personal information including both your and your spouse’s (if married), name, year of birth, social security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN); mailing address; and county.
• Your filing status will usually be the same as on your federal return.
• A copy of your current year federal Form 1040 or 1040SR, federal income tax return, and any federal schedules you completed.
• Copies of all current year W-2 and 1099 forms. That show Illinois income and withholding. Withholding is included on Schedule IL-WIT.

Other information you may need, if applicable:

• If you have dependents that you can claim on your return, your dependents’ SSN or ITIN numbers and a completed Schedule IL-E/EITC.
•  If you qualify for a property tax credit, your property number, amount of property tax paid and a completed Schedule ICR;
• If you qualify for an education expense credit, receipts for qualified education expenses paid and a completed Schedule ICR;
• If you qualify for Illinois earned income tax credit, a copy of your federal Form 1040 and all schedules, and a completed Schedule IL-E/EITC;
• If you qualify for Illinois child tax credit, a completed Schedule IL-E/EITC;
• If you qualify for the Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit, your Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit Certificate Number and a completed Schedule ICR;
• Support for any of the additions or subtractions listed on Schedule M.

For more information, see IL-1040 Instructions.