Can I Get My Tax Refund Faster?

The fastest way to get your refund is to e-file your return and select direct deposit — the IRS typically issues refunds within 10–21 days for straightforward returns. Paper filing with a paper check can take 6–8 weeks or longer. Filing early (as soon as you have all your documents) also speeds things up, and avoids identity theft delays that come with returns filed after others have attempted to file fraudulently using your SSN. Returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit are held until mid-February by law (PATH Act). Refund advance loans from tax preparers give you money immediately, but they typically come with fees or interest that reduce your refund.