IRS has opened up multiple avenues for you to access tax information using the newest technology. There are applications for Smartphones and dozens of YouTube videos to watch from your phone or computer. Here are some of the ways IRS delivers the latest information, initiatives, products, and services through social media.

1. YouTube – There are many short and very informative videos on tax related topics on the IRS YouTube Video Channel. The videos are in English, sigh language and several foreign languages
2. Audio files for podcasts – These are short audio recordings that offer important information on tax-related topics. They are available on iTunes, or via the Multimedia Center on IRS.gov.
3. IRS2Go – This application for Smartphones lets you interact with the IRS using your mobile device. It helps you claim your refunds and get tax updates and is available for iPhone,  iTouch, and for Android phones.
4. Twitter – Using twitter handle @IRSnews, you can follow us and get IRS tweets including announcements, news form tax experts, and updates for job seekers.
5. RSS – Really Simple Syndication is a simple way to collect a variety of content in one place on your computer. IRS offers tax RSS feeds and news whenever they are updated, even not on the IRS website.
6. Widgets – These tools placed on weblogs, websites, and social media networks direct you to the IRS website for information. The widgets provide the newest tax programs and initiatives and are available on Marketing Express. This is the marketing site that lets IRS partners and tax preparers to customize their IRS communications products

It is important to note that the IRS uses these tools to share information with you so do not post confidential information like Social Security Number. IRS does not answer personal tax or account questions through the social network platforms.

The various online platforms have significantly helped the IRS in disseminating information to taxpayers in a fast and convenient way. At the click of a button, a taxpayer is not only able to view the processing status of his/her filed returns, but is able to raise any questions and concerns as well.

To be informed is to be empowered, and this is what taxpayers have become. Having the necessary information at the required time has led to many taxpayers cutting back on fines, penalties, and other surcharges. Join the IRS social roll today and become an e-formed taxpayer!