Mon Jan 27 09:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Speed Up Your Tax Refund: Two Simple Steps for Faster Payments
**New York, NY** – Tax season is officially open, and Americans can start filing their returns on January 27th. However, the speed at which they receive their refunds depends largely on their filing method. To expedite the process, financial experts recommend two key steps: e-filing and direct deposit.
According to the IRS, e-filing and direct deposit can significantly reduce processing time, with refunds arriving in as little as 21 days compared to 6-8 weeks for paper filings and mailed checks. The average refund in 2024 was approximately $3,050.
“Getting the biggest refund in the shortest amount of time is a two-step process,” says Drew Powers, founder of Powers Financial Group. “First, be organized and gather all necessary documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and other relevant forms. Second, always e-file and use direct deposit.”
Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, adds that using tax preparation software can further help identify potential errors and prevent delays. While the IRS has improved efficiency, filing early and electronically remains the best strategy for a swift refund.
Taxpayers can track their refund status using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” tool online or via the IRS2Go mobile app. The deadline to file is April 15th, unless an extension is granted. Those needing an extension can file Form 4868 online.
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