How does e-filing generally affect processing times?

E-filing generally speeds up processing times due to its automated nature and efficient transmission of documents. When documents are submitted electronically, they can be immediately received and processed by the relevant government or judicial body without the delays associated with physical mail. This results in a faster acknowledgment of receipt, quicker initial assessments, and a more streamlined workflow overall.

Furthermore, e-filing systems often come equipped with features that reduce errors and provide status updates in real time, which can expedite processing further. These systems can facilitate faster communication between parties and allow for quicker responses to any issues that may arise during processing, contributing to overall efficiency.

The other options would imply that e-filing either has no effect, slows down the process, or introduces unpredictability, which contrasts with the generally observed efficiency gains associated with electronic submissions.