The average tax return in 2022 was over $3,000 — but are you getting as much money back as possible?

Your filing method can make or break your tax return. Here’s how to do it right.

Pexels

We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Please be aware that some (or all) products and services linked in this article are from our sponsors.

By Diana Bird Feb. 08, 2023

This year’s tax season runs until April 18, but you don’t want to wait until the deadline to file your return — you’d just be delaying that sweet deposit into your account.

For quick submissions and ease of use, online submissions are all the rage. Last year, 90% of individual tax returns were filed electronically, according to the IRS.

But there are so many tax software options, with a range of paid and unpaid options, that it’s hard to know which one is actually right for you.

This year, finances are especially tight for most Americans, and you want to save every dollar you can. Instead of shelling out for an overwhelmed accountant or expensive online programs, why not use a platform you’ve already got installed on your phone?

Cash App offers fast and easy tax filing, and unlike other software that boasts higher returns than filing solo, their max return guarantee doesn’t come with a price tag — it’s totally free.

File your federal and state taxes for free

Cash App Taxes promises speed, accuracy and a maximum refund guarantee. There are no paid add-ons or premium levels you need to upgrade to if you’ve sold stocks or bitcoin. It truly is fast, easy and free.

You can file in minutes on your computer or through the app. It’ll even autofill your information from a photo of your W-2 for maximum convenience.

There’s no need to worry about security either: Cash App meets or exceeds all IRS standards and is an authorized IRS e-file provider.

With 9 million returns filed so far and a 5-star rating from Forbes Advisor, there’s no reason to shell out cash for another tax product.

Try it today

Kiss Your Credit Card Debt Goodbye

Millions of Americans are struggling to crawl out of debt in the face of record-high interest rates. A personal loan offers lower interest rates and fixed payments, making it a smart choice to consolidate high-interest credit card debt. It helps save money, simplifies payments, and accelerates debt payoff. Credible is a free online service that shows you the best lending options to pay off your credit card debt fast — and save a ton in interest.

About the Author

Diana Bird

Associate Editor

Diana Bird is an Associate Editor for Moneywise. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toronto in English Literature and Classical Civilizations as well as a Certification in Publishing from Toronto Metropolitan University. Prior to joining Moneywise, Diana worked for a non-profit organization that delivered training to financial supervisors in emerging and developing economies.

What to Read Next

How to check your credit score for free

Your credit score can have a big impact on your life.

By Kevin Hamilton

A TikToker paid off $17K in debt by cash stuffing

This old-school budgeting hack is one of four ways you can weather rapidly rising prices.

By Moneywise

7 Millennial Money Struggles — And How To Start Dealing With Them

Many millennials will likely be able to relate to more than one of these issues.

By Serah Louis

3 simple ways deflate your budget

Someone keeps adding rungs to the economic ladder.

By Sabina Wex

Disclaimer

The content provided on Moneywise is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.