Headlines from just about every major news outlet…and word from the IRS itself…indicates that tax season is going to be a mess this year.  Combine a staffing shortage, supply chain issues and pandemic related law changes and it could take a bit to get your refund. How do you help expedite the process? Well, here are four tips to get your refund as fast as possible this year:

1. File ASAP.  Instead of waiting at least another month . . . or two . . . knock out your filing now, before everyone else.

2. Use e-filing.  Don’t mail in your tax forms . . . instead, use electronic filing.  The IRS says e-filing can get you a refund within 21 days . . . at least twice as fast as if you use the mail.

3. Don’t make any mistakes.  Obviously getting audited is bad and will CLEARLY slow down your refund.  But even having a few minor mistakes can slow things down if the IRS has to check them against their records.

4. Request direct deposit.  If you let the IRS just dump your refund into your bank account instead of asking for a check, you can get your refund sooner.