Where to get a refund advance
Refund advances are offered by tax preparation companies, not by the IRS itself. The main providers are H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, Liberty Tax Service, and some regional tax offices. Each charges different fees and has different requirements, so the cost of borrowing against your refund can vary significantly depending on which service you choose.
A refund advance is a short-term loan: the tax preparer lends you money based on what they estimate your refund will be, and the loan is repaid directly from your actual refund when it arrives. You do not receive the full refund amount—the loan fee, interest, and sometimes filing fees come out first. The process typically takes one to five business days from approval to receiving the money.
Not all tax services offer refund advances. Some focus only on tax preparation and direct you to third-party lenders if you want to borrow. Others have stopped offering them altogether in recent years. Before you visit or call, check the company's website to confirm they currently offer this product in your state.
Key Takeaways
- H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, and Liberty Tax Service are the largest tax preparation chains offering refund advances, though availability varies by location and state.
- Refund advance fees typically range from $0 to $200 depending on the provider and the loan amount, and interest rates vary as well.
- You will need to file your tax return with the same company offering the advance, since the loan is repaid from your refund when it arrives.
- The money usually reaches your bank account within one to five business days if you choose direct deposit, but the full refund takes longer to arrive from the IRS.
H&R Block refund advances
H&R Block offers a product called the Refund Advance (sometimes called a Refund Anticipation Loan or RAL) at many of its locations. The fee structure and availability depend on which H&R Block office you visit and whether you file in-person or online. Some locations charge a flat fee; others charge a percentage of the loan amount or a combination of both.
To get an H&R Block refund advance, you must file your return with H&R Block and have your refund direct deposited to a bank account. The company estimates your refund based on the information you provide, and if you meet their lending criteria, they can fund the advance the same day or within one business day. You will need a valid ID and proof of income.
H&R Block's refund advance is not available in all states. Some states restrict these loans or have banned them entirely. Check with your local H&R Block office or their website to see if the product is offered where you live.
Jackson Hewitt refund advances
Jackson Hewitt offers a Refund Advance Loan at most of its tax preparation locations. Like other providers, the loan is based on your estimated refund and is repaid when your actual refund arrives. Jackson Hewitt's fees vary by location and the size of the advance, so you should ask about the specific cost before you agree to the loan.
Jackson Hewitt requires you to file your return with them and set up direct deposit for your refund. The advance is typically funded within one business day. You will need a government-issued ID and proof of income or employment to be considered for the loan.
Jackson Hewitt has locations in most states, but refund advances are not offered everywhere. Some states do not allow these loans, and some Jackson Hewitt franchises may not offer them even where they are legal. Call ahead or check online to confirm availability in your area.
Liberty Tax Service refund advances
Liberty Tax Service offers a Liberty Refund Advance at participating locations. The loan works the same way as other refund advances: you borrow against your estimated refund, and the loan is repaid from your actual refund when it arrives. Liberty's fees depend on the loan amount and your location.
To get a Liberty refund advance, you must file your tax return with Liberty and choose direct deposit for your refund. The company can usually fund the advance within one to two business days if you meet their lending standards. You will need a valid ID and proof of income.
Liberty Tax Service has locations across the country, but refund advances are not available at every location or in every state. Some states restrict or prohibit these loans. Contact your local Liberty office to ask whether they offer refund advances and what the fees are.
Independent and regional tax offices
Many independent tax preparation offices and regional chains also offer refund advances. These smaller providers often have more flexibility in their fee structures and lending criteria than the national chains, but they may also have less transparent pricing. Always ask about the total cost before you agree to a refund advance.
Independent offices are more likely to be found in urban areas and communities with large populations. If you use an independent tax preparer, ask directly whether they offer refund advances and what the fees are. Some may partner with third-party lenders rather than lending the money themselves.
What to compare when choosing a provider
The cost of a refund advance is the most important factor to compare. Fees can range from $0 to $200 or more, depending on the provider and the loan amount. Some companies charge a flat fee; others charge a percentage of the loan. Ask each provider for the total cost in dollars, not just a percentage, so you can compare apples to apples.
Speed matters too. If you need the money urgently, ask how quickly each provider can fund the advance. Most can do it within one to two business days, but some may be faster or slower depending on how busy they are and whether you file in-person or online.
Also consider whether you are comfortable filing your taxes with that provider. You must file with the same company that is lending you the advance, so if you prefer a particular tax preparer, that may limit your options. Some people choose a refund advance provider based on where they want to file, rather than the other way around.
What you will need to bring
Most tax services that offer refund advances require the same documents you would bring to file your taxes: your Social Security number or ITIN, proof of income (W-2s, 1099s, or pay stubs), proof of identity (driver's license or passport), and proof of your current address (utility bill or lease). You will also need your bank account information if you want direct deposit.
Some providers may ask for additional documentation to verify your income or employment, especially if the refund advance is large. Have your most recent pay stub and your employer's contact information available in case they ask to verify your employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a refund advance if I file my taxes online?
Yes, but it depends on the provider. Some tax services allow you to file online and still receive a refund advance, while others require you to file in-person at a physical location. Check with the specific company to see whether they offer refund advances for online filers.
What happens if my actual refund is smaller than the estimate?
You will owe the difference. The tax preparer estimates your refund based on the information you provide, but if your actual refund is smaller, you will need to repay the shortfall. This is why it is important to provide accurate information when you file.
Can I get a refund advance if I owe taxes instead of getting a refund?
No. A refund advance is only available if you are expecting a refund. If you owe taxes, you cannot borrow against a refund that does not exist.
Do I have to use direct deposit to get a refund advance?
Yes. All major tax services that offer refund advances require you to set up direct deposit for your refund. This is how they may support the loan is repaid when your refund arrives.
How long does it take to get the money after I am approved?
Most providers fund refund advances within one to five business days of approval. The exact timing depends on the company and how busy they are during tax season. Your actual refund from the IRS takes much longer—typically two to three weeks or more.