In the old days, say, about a decade ago, it could take enormous amounts of time to complete simple legal transactions, file tax documents or execute official applications that today can be carried out with a click. That’s not to say there isn’t still a wide range of bureaucratic paper-shuffling–especially when it comes to health insurance claims or the DMV–but there seem to be fewer and fewer paperwork hoops to jump through.
Here are several formerly paper-bound legal tasks that it’s now possible to complete digitally.
1. File Tax Forms and Pay Taxes
(Photo via turbotax.com)
The IRS now requires businesses to file their tax returns electronically. Websites such as Turbotax.com offer a simple and easy way to file tax forms online. The tax software helps guide users through the process and will immediately notify you of proof of acceptance.
2. File Government Forms
(Photo via irs.org)
The W-9 is just one of the many forms of government paperwork (now digital-work) you can fill out and submit online.
3. Sign & Send Legal Documents
(Photo via adobeecosign.com)
Adobe EcoSign is a great way to sign and send legal documents anywhere. It has been rated as the No. 1 e-signature solution on the salesforce.com app exchange. It also records all transaction history so that your legal information is automatically secured and recorded.
4. Apply for Business Licenses
(Photo via Tn.gov)
Most states’ department of revenue websites offer a great resource for small businesses and start-ups. These websites should allow you to perform digitally almost any legal action required by the state (besides going to a court hearing). These sites will lead you through the process of opening, closing, running and moving your business. You can even apply for a business license without ever having to walk into a state building. (What a relief.)
5. Pay Fees or Fines
(Photo via Tn.gov)
You can pay almost every variety of government or state bill or fee online by visiting the .gov version of your state’s website or irs.gov for the federal government. And let’s repeat: You might not ever have to step into another government building again.
6. Report Tax Fraud
(Photo via Tn.gov)
Citizens or business owners who suspect violation of their state’s revenue laws can download a tax fraud pdf off the website and mail in a claim to the IRS.
(Featured photo via wikimedia commons)
