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H.R. 6956119th CongressPassed one chamberLatest action Apr 28, 2026Decoded by AI · checked against the record
The plain-language version leads. The official text is always the reference.
The BARCODE Efficiency Act would require scannable codes or OCR on paper tax returns to cut IRS processing errors and delays.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
The bill requires printed tax returns prepared with tax software to include a scannable code containing all return data, which the IRS must scan instead of manually entering. For other paper returns or unreadable codes, the IRS must use optical character recognition (OCR) technology, also applied to other paper correspondence like letters and forms.
This affects the IRS's internal processing operations and taxpayers who file paper returns by mail instead of e-filing.
The changes aim to reduce manual data entry errors and processing delays, though the IRS can skip the tech requirements if it finds the technology slower or less reliable, reporting that decision to Congress within 30 days.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it. Read the official bill on Congress.gov
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.