Using AI document scanning

Updated January 15, 20264 min read

How FileJoy AI Extraction Works

FileJoy uses advanced AI to read your tax documents and automatically extract the data you need. Instead of manually typing numbers from a W-2 or 1099, you can upload the document and let AI do the heavy lifting.

The Process

Step 1: Upload Your Document

Upload a PDF or image (JPEG, PNG) of your tax document. You can do this from:

  • The **Your Documents** page (drag and drop or click to browse)
  • Directly when **adding a W-2, 1099**, or other income form
  • The **Upload** button in the top navigation

Step 2: AI Reads and Extracts

Once uploaded, our AI immediately begins processing the document:

  • **Document identification** — The AI determines what type of document it is (W-2, 1099-NEC, 1099-INT, receipt, etc.)
  • **Field extraction** — Key data fields are read from the document (amounts, names, EINs, dates)
  • **Data mapping** — Extracted values are mapped to the correct fields in your tax return

This typically takes just a few seconds.

Step 3: Review the Extracted Data

After extraction, FileJoy shows you the results alongside the original document. Every extracted field is highlighted so you can:

  • **Verify** each value matches your document
  • **Correct** any values the AI misread
  • **Add** any values the AI missed

Step 4: Save to Your Return

Once you've reviewed and confirmed the data, click Save to add it to your return. The information flows directly into the right sections—no retyping needed.

Supported Document Types

Our AI can extract data from these common tax documents:

  • **W-2** — Wages, taxes withheld, employer info
  • **1099-NEC** — Non-employee compensation
  • **1099-INT** — Interest income
  • **1099-DIV** — Dividend income
  • **1099-B** — Stock and investment sales
  • **1098** — Mortgage interest
  • **Receipts** — Amount, date, merchant, category

Correcting Errors

AI is very accurate, but it's not perfect. If the extracted data doesn't match your document:

  1. Click on the incorrect field
  2. Type the correct value
  3. The correction is saved instantly

Rescanning a Document

If the initial scan produced poor results (blurry image, partial extraction), you can rescan:

  1. Go to **Your Documents**
  2. Find the document
  3. Click the **Rescan** button
  4. Review the new results

Consider uploading a clearer copy if rescanning doesn't improve results.

Tips for Best Results

  • **PDF is best** — Original digital PDFs scan more accurately than photos
  • **Good lighting** — If taking a photo, use bright, even lighting
  • **Flat surface** — Place the document flat on a contrasting background
  • **All corners visible** — Make sure the entire document is in the frame
  • **No shadows** — Avoid casting shadows over the document

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