The 2026 tax filing season is officially open, and with an average refund of $3,453 on the line, speed matters. Whether you’re waiting on that money for bills, savings, or a much-needed purchase, every day counts. The good news? You can file your taxes fast, avoid costly errors, and get your refund deposited in as little as 3 weeks—if you know the right steps. This guide walks you through exactly how to file taxes fast, from gathering your paperwork to tracking your refund status after you submit.
File Your Taxes Fast in 5 Simple Steps
If you prepare correctly and use online tax software like ezTaxReturn, you can complete your federal income tax return in under an hour. No appointments, no waiting rooms, no mailing delays.
Here are the five main steps to file fast:
- Gather your documents – W-2s, 1099s, prior year return, and bank account info for direct deposit
- Choose an online service – ezTaxReturn offers guided filing that handles the forms for you
- Enter your information – Answer simple questions about your income, deductions, and credits
- Review your return – Check for errors before submitting
- E-file and choose direct deposit – Submit electronically and get your funds deposited directly
Filing online with e file and direct deposit is the fastest way to get a tax refund. The IRS processes accurate electronic returns in about 21 days, compared to 6 weeks or more for paper returns sent through the mail.
Ready to get started? Start filing now with ezTaxReturn and take advantage of guided questions and built-in error checks that help you avoid the mistakes that slow down refunds.
Get Organized Before You Start (So You Don’t Slow Down Later)
Most time wasted during tax filing isn’t spent actually filling out forms—it’s spent hunting for documents. A little preparation can cut your filing time in half and prevent frustrating delays.
Your Tax Document Checklist
Gather these items before you create your account:
- W-2 forms from each employer for the tax year (you may have multiple if you changed jobs)
- 1099-NEC for freelance or self employment income
- 1099-INT and 1099-DIV for interest and investment income from your financial institution
- 1098-T for tuition and education expenses
- 1098 for mortgage interest deductions
- Prior year return (you’ll need your prior year AGI to verify your identity)
- Social Security numbers for yourself, spouse, and any dependents
- Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
Key Dates to Know
Your employer must send W-2 forms by January 31. Most 1099 forms arrive by early February. If you haven’t received expected forms by mid-February, contact your employer or financial institution directly.
Create a Tax Folder
Set up a simple “tax folder”—physical or digital—labeled for the current tax year. Drop documents in as they arrive throughout January and February. This one habit makes filing faster this year and even faster next year when you already have a system in place.
Why Filing Online Is the Fastest Way to Do Your Taxes
The difference between e-filing with direct deposit and mailing a paper return is dramatic. One gets your money in weeks. The other can leave you waiting for months.
Filing Method | Typical Refund Timeline |
|---|---|
E-file + Direct Deposit | 7–21 days |
E-file + Paper Check | 3–4 weeks |
Paper Return + Paper Check | 4–8 weeks or longer |
When you file taxes online, the tax software automatically performs calculations, applies current tax law, and checks for common errors that trigger IRS delays. There’s no manual data entry on the IRS side, no mail transit time, and no chance of your return getting lost.
Online tax preparation also lets you save your progress and come back later. You can start entering your W-2 information on Monday, add your deductions on Wednesday, and submit when you’re ready—without rushing through and making mistakes.
The IRS has endorsed electronic filing for decades, and for good reason. It’s faster, more accurate, and gets your refund to your account sooner.
File Fast with ezTaxReturn (Our Recommended Online Option)
If you want to file your taxes fast while ensuring accuracy, ezTaxReturn is the recommended way to file your federal and state returns from home.
How ezTaxReturn Works
ezTaxReturn uses a guided, interview-style process. Instead of staring at complicated forms and schedules, you answer simple questions in plain English. The software fills in the correct tax form entries behind the scenes.
Here’s what makes it fast:
- Quick income entry – Enter W-2 information, report wages, unemployment, retirement distributions, and side gig income without hunting for forms
- Automatic deductions and credits – The software identifies which tax credit options and deductions you’re eligible for based on your answers
- Built-in error checks – Before you submit, ezTaxReturn flags missing information and potential errors that could cause delays
- Federal and state in one flow – File federal and state returns together without re-entering the same information twice
You don’t need to understand tax jargon or determine which schedules apply to your situation. The software handles that so you can focus on answering questions accurately.
Step-by-Step: How to File Your Taxes Fast with ezTaxReturn
Knowing exactly what to expect makes the process even faster. Here’s a walkthrough of the actual steps you’ll complete when you file your taxes online with ezTaxReturn.
Step 1: Create or Sign In to Your Account
Visit ezTaxReturn and create an account using your email address. If you filed with ezTaxReturn in a prior year, sign in to access your prior year return information, which speeds up the process.
Step 2: Answer Basic Profile Questions
The software asks about your filing status (single, married filing jointly, head of household, etc.), your state of residence, and whether you have dependents. These answers determine which forms and credits apply to your situation.
Step 3: Enter Your Income
Add your W-2 information by typing in the numbers from your form. Report any additional income sources:
- Freelance or 1099 income
- Unemployment compensation
- Retirement distributions
- Investment income (interest and dividends)
- Other taxable income
Step 4: Claim Deductions and Credits
Answer guided questions about:
- Student loan interest payments
- Education expenses and tuition credits
- Child care costs
- Retirement contributions
- Charitable donations
- Medical expenses
The software calculates whether the standard deduction or itemized deductions give you the biggest refund and applies the max refund option automatically.
Step 5: Review Your Return
At the end of your federal and state returns, you’ll be shown a summary of your refund or the amount you owe. Before you file, you’ll also have the option to print or download a copy of your return for final review. Take a moment to review this screen carefully to ensure no changes need to be made. If you notice a mistake after your return was filed and accepted, you’ll need to file an amended return.
Step 6: Submit and Choose Direct Deposit
Once everything looks correct, submit your e-filed return. Enter your bank routing and account number to receive your refund via direct deposit. The entire filing process typically takes about 30 minutes for a straightforward return with W-2 income.
You’ll get a confirmation that the IRS and state have received your return within 24-48 hours.
Common Mistakes That Slow Down Your Tax Return (and How to Avoid Them)
Even small errors can trigger an IRS notice or manual review that delays your refund for weeks. Here’s what to watch for.
Top Errors That Cause Delays
Mistake | Why It Causes Problems |
|---|---|
Wrong Social Security number | IRS can’t match your return to your records |
Name doesn’t match SSA records | Triggers identity verification process |
Incorrect bank account numbers | Refund gets rejected and reissued as paper check |
Missing income forms | IRS notices discrepancy with employer-reported income |
Math errors | Return gets flagged for manual review |
Wrong filing status | May qualify you for incorrect credits |
How to Avoid These Mistakes
- Type Social Security numbers exactly as they appear on cards
- Verify names match your Social Security card (including suffixes and hyphenations)
- Double-check bank routing and account numbers before submitting
- Wait until you’ve received all W-2s and 1099s before filing
- Use the software’s review feature—don’t skip it
Rushing to file on the last weekend before the April 15 deadline often leads to these errors. Filing earlier in the season gives you time to obtain any missing forms and review your return carefully.
ezTaxReturn’s built-in checks catch many of these issues before you submit, helping you avoid delays and IRS penalties for errors.
Keep Copies of Everything
After you file, save copies (or PDFs) of your filed return and confirmation emails. If something does come up—like an amended return request or a question from the IRS—having your paperwork ready makes fixing issues much quicker.
Track Your Refund After You File
Filing fast is only part of the process. Once you submit, tracking your refund status helps you know exactly when money will hit your account.
Using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
The IRS provides a free online tool to check your refund status. You’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your filing status
- The exact refund amount shown on your return
Visit IRS.gov/wheres-my-refund to access the tracker.
What to Expect
- Status updates usually appear within 24 hours of e-filing
- The tool updates once daily (typically overnight), not in real-time
- Most accurate e-filed returns with direct deposit are processed within 21 days
State Refund Tracking
Each state has its own refund tracking tool. Look for “Check my refund status” links on your state’s tax website. Processing times vary by state, so don’t be surprised if your state refund arrives on a different date than your federal refund.
Keep Your Login Handy
Save your ezTaxReturn login credentials so you can access your filed return anytime. If the IRS or state requests additional information, you’ll be able to quickly pull up the exact amounts and details you reported.
Key Takeaways
- E-file with direct deposit to receive your refund within 21 days instead of 4–8 weeks
- Gather all your documents before you start filing to avoid delays mid-process
- Use guided software like ezTaxReturn to assist with forms and catch errors
- Double-check Social Security numbers, bank account details, and income amounts
- Track your refund using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool after you submit
Filing your own taxes doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the right preparation and the right tools, you can file federal and state returns in under an hour and have your refund deposited within weeks.
Start your free federal return with ezTaxReturn today and get your maximum refund guarantee—fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the fastest way to file my taxes?
E‑filing with direct deposit is the fastest way to file your taxes and receive your refund. Online tax software guides you step‑by‑step so you can finish quickly and avoid common mistakes.
How long does it take to file taxes online?
Most people can file in as little as 30 minutes, especially if they have their documents ready. Simple returns often take even less time.
What documents should I gather to file faster?
Have your W‑2s, 1099s, Social Security Number, prior‑year AGI (if applicable), and bank information for direct deposit. Having everything in one place speeds up the entire process.
Does filing early help me get my refund faster?
Yes. Filing early means your return enters the IRS system before peak volume, which can help you get approved and refunded sooner.
How can I avoid delays when filing my taxes?
Double‑check your Social Security Number, income forms, and bank details. Errors, missing documents, and typos are the most common causes of IRS delays.
Is direct deposit really faster than a paper check?
Absolutely. Direct deposit is the quickest way to receive your refund. Paper checks take longer due to printing and mailing times.
Can I file my taxes fast if I have a more complicated return?
Yes. Online tax software can handle multiple income types, deductions, and credits. Guided questions help you move through the process quickly without missing anything important.
How soon will I get my refund if I file fast?
Most refunds are issued in 21 days or less when you e‑file and choose direct deposit. Filing early and avoiding errors helps speed things up.
Can ezTaxReturn help me file my taxes quickly?
Yes. ezTaxReturn walks you through your return in plain English, checks for errors, and helps you finish fast so you can get your refund as soon as possible.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
