Tax refunds are anticipated to be substantial this year. Here’s how you can receive yours as quickly as possible.

Maximizing Your Tax Refund: Fastest Ways to Get Paid

This year, tax refunds are anticipated to be especially large, prompting many Americans to seek the quickest method to receive their money. The most efficient and cost-free option is electronic direct deposit.

For millions across the country, tax refunds represent the largest financial boost of the year. Historically, about three-quarters of Americans receive a refund annually. According to IRS statistics, the typical refund in 2025 was $2,939. Thanks to new measures introduced by President Donald Trump's significant tax and spending legislation, this year's refunds could increase by up to 30%, as noted by James Knightley, chief international economist at ING.

Currently, 90% of taxpayers already opt for direct deposit, but the IRS is encouraging even more people to make the switch, as it is the fastest and most secure way to receive government payments. Since September 30 of last year, the IRS has been gradually discontinuing paper checks for individual filers.

“Paper checks are over 16 times more likely to be lost, stolen, altered, or delayed than electronic payments,” the IRS reports. “Direct deposit also eliminates the risk of a refund check being returned as undeliverable.”

To accelerate the process further, the IRS recommends combining electronic filing with direct deposit for the quickest refund turnaround.

How to Set Up Direct Deposit for Your Refund

• If you use tax software:

  Choose direct deposit as your preferred refund method and enter your bank’s routing and account numbers. The routing number, which identifies your bank’s branch, can be found on the bottom left of your checks or on your bank’s website. Your account number is typically on the bottom right of your checks, or you can access it via online banking or by contacting your bank.

• If you work with a tax preparer:

  Inform your preparer that you want your refund via direct deposit. They will handle the necessary steps.

• If you file a paper return:

  Be sure to select direct deposit on your tax form and provide your account details. Double-check your entries to avoid errors or delays. Incorrect information may result in the IRS mailing you a paper check instead.

No Bank Account? Here’s What to Do

If you don’t have a bank account, opening a new account is usually a quick process. Alternatively, ask your tax preparer if they offer other electronic payment solutions.

Another option is to have your refund deposited onto a reloadable prepaid debit card or a mobile app. Many of these cards and apps provide routing and account numbers, which may differ from the card number itself. Confirm with your provider that your card or app can accept direct deposits, and verify the correct numbers before submitting them.

Splitting Your Refund Across Multiple Accounts

With larger refunds expected, dividing your refund among different accounts can help you manage your finances more effectively. For example, you might allocate part of your refund for immediate expenses and the rest for savings.

You can split your refund electronically using tax software or by completing IRS Form 8888 if you file a paper return.

• You may divide your refund in any way you choose and deposit funds into up to three different U.S. financial accounts, reloadable prepaid debit cards, or mobile apps.
• Refunds can only be deposited into accounts in your name, your spouse’s name, or both if it’s a joint account.
• No more than three electronic refunds can be sent to a single account or prepaid card.

How Quickly Will You Receive Your Refund?

Most taxpayers who file electronically and select direct deposit receive their refunds in less than 21 days.

You can monitor your refund status using the IRS "Where’s My Refund?" tool, which tracks when your return was received, approved, and when your refund was issued. Once approved, the funds typically arrive in your account within five days.

If you submit a paper return, processing may take four weeks or longer. For those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, the IRS is legally required to wait until mid-February to issue refunds. Most early filers in this category should see their refunds by March 3, provided there are no issues and direct deposit was chosen.

Tracking Your Refund

Regardless of whether you opt for a paper check or direct deposit (to one or multiple accounts), you can check your refund status through the "Where’s My Refund?" tool on the IRS website or by calling 800-829-1954.

• You can check your refund status 24 hours after e-filing or four weeks after mailing a paper return. The system updates once daily, overnight.
• Have your Social Security or taxpayer ID number, filing status, and the exact refund amount ready.
• If you split your refund, the tool will confirm the split but won’t display the amounts for each account. It will show the estimated deposit dates and notify you of any adjustments made by the IRS.