How to Get a Tax Refund
When it comes to getting your tax refund check, there's no need to procrastinate when you have all the information you need at your finger tips.
Up next in How to Do Your Taxes (15 videos)
Whether you're filing taxes for yourself or a business, we'll help you make the April 15 deadline.
You Will Need
- Internet access
- Tax professional or tax software
- W-2 Forms
- 1099s
- Previous year's completed tax return
- Social security number
- Receipts
- Bank account (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Decide on method
Decide whether to hire a tax professional to complete your tax return, or purchase software online or via IRS's Freefile at IRS.gov/freefile (if your adjusted gross income meets the requirements).
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Step 2
Do your research
Before you complete your income tax return, research any new tax laws from the previous year so you don't miss out on any significant tax credits or tax breaks.
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Go online to the IRS website at irs.gov, where you will find updated information pertaining to the current tax filing year.
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Step 3
Gather information
Gather all information to complete your tax return, such as W-2 forms, 1099s, a previous year's tax return, your social security number, and receipts.
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Step 4
Complete tax return
Complete the tax return with the method of choice. Proof, sign, and send your completed tax return via online or mail. Be accurate to avoid delays
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A refund anticipation loan (RAL) allows you to get your refund in one to two days, but you will lose approximately 10 percent of your tax return.
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Step 5
Check status of tax return
Check the status of your tax return by going online to irs.gov. and look for "Where's My Refund," normally within 72 hours after the IRS acknowledges that they received your e-filed return. Enjoy spending your money.
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For the 2006 tax year, 1.4 million U.S. tax payers failed to claim more than $1.3 billion in tax refunds.
