The days remaining to file tax returns are dwindling, but with Internet filing available, procrastinators can still get returns in on time.

As of April 11, 3.4 million returns had been received at www.ILtax.com; however, a total of 5.7 million are expected to be received, Debbie Best, spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Revenue, said Thursday.

“We’ve got a lot yet to go,” she said. “This week we have extended hours for those individuals who need it.”

Filing tax returns by phone or electronically will speed up the process and get returns back within one week, Best said.

“Electronic filers get their refunds fast, as quickly as one week when they have their refunds direct deposited,” Glen Bower, director of revenue, said in a press release.

The extended hours are Friday and Monday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Best also said the Illinois Department of Revenue website is available for any information.

The number of returns received via the Internet has increased this year by 39 percent to 70,172 returns.

Best said there are many benefits to filing via the Internet, including a confirmation number to ensure returns have been filed, which is not available through filing by mail.

Furthermore, Best said anytime there is an error on a return, mistakes are fixed faster because sending back the return through mail is eliminated.

“It’s safe, secure and fast,” she said.

In addition to the Internet and mail, taxes can be filled out with PC filing software, over the telephone or by transcribing a handwritten return online.

“Taxpayers can file electronically for free with our Internet filing option at www.ILtax.com, and they don’t even have to buy a stamp,” Bower said.

The toll-free number is 1-800-732-8866.