How to Enhance Tax Preparation Services with Refund Advances

Waiting on a tax refund can be stressful, especially for clients who need that money right away. The Taxpayer Advance Loan, offered through Refund Advantage, helps reduce that wait. It gives clients early access to funds based on their expected tax refund.

This loan is a tax refund-related product, not the refund itself. It is often called a refund advance loan. It’s designed to bridge the gap while the IRS processes the return, giving your clients peace of mind. It’s a great solution for your office to stand out during the busy season.

What the Loan Includes

Clients can apply for different loan amounts based on their refund:

• No-cost options² of $200, $500, or $1,000 at 0% APR
• These advance loans carry no interest and no fees to your client. The amount is easily repaid by being deducted from the tax refunds once processed, making it simple for your client.
• Higher loan amounts from $1,250 up to $7,500 at a 36% APR
• These are ideal for clients expecting large refunds and needing more immediate support.
• Fast delivery
• Approved loans are paid directly to the taxpayer quick, especially when using the FasterMoney® Visa® Prepaid Card³.

Why It Matters to Your Clients

In a difficult economy, your clients are likely looking for funds to support their day to day needs. By providing access to Taxpayer Advance Loans, this helps:

• By preparing their tax return, they will have an idea of their expected tax refund and reduces stress.
• Clients use their Advance Loan for rent, groceries, or bills. This loan helps them get money when they need it most.
• No checking account needed
• With the prepaid card option, even unbanked clients can receive funds quick and secure.
• Clear and simple terms
• Repayment of the loan is easy – it’s deducted from the tax refund once it is issued. Clients know exactly what to expect.

How It Supports Your Tax Preparation Services

Adding Taxpayer Advance Loans improves your tax preparation services in several ways:

• Drives early-season traffic
• Pre-Ack Loans⁴ are available as early as January 2, giving your office a head start on the season.
• If clients receive funds via the FasterMoney Visa Prepaid Card, there are no marketing fees⁵. You can offer value without increasing your expenses.
• Builds loyalty and trust
• Providing a real solution to a common problem helps you retain current clients and attract new ones.

Easy to Enroll

Getting started is simple:

1. Enroll online with Refund Advantage
2. Join RA Talks webinars to stay updated on industry best practices
3. Contact our Award-Winning Support anytime for help

Final Thoughts

Offering the Taxpayer Advance Loan transforms your office into more than just a place for tax prep—it becomes a financial support center. You help clients access their tax refunds fast, reduce stress, and stay ahead of financial trouble.

With dollar amounts up to $7,500, paid directly to the taxpayer and deducted from tax refunds, this tax refund-related product delivers real value—and strengthens your business at the same time.

1. The Refund Advance is an optional tax-refund related loan provided by Pathward®, N.A., Member FDIC (it is not the actual tax refund) at participating locations. Program availability and loan amounts may vary based on state and software provider. The amount of the loan and applicable interest will be deducted from tax refunds and reduce the amount that is paid directly to the taxpayer. Fees for other optional products or product features may apply. Tax returns may be filed electronically without applying for this loan. Loans offered in amounts of $250 (where available), $500, $1,000, 25%, 50%, or 75% of your expected tax refund up to $7,500, with interest-based applicants receiving an average of $2,157.45; $7,500 available only to well-qualified applicants with a minimum expected tax refund of $10,592. Underwriting standards subject to change. When calculating the amount of your loan, the amount of your “expected” tax refund may be affected by any refundable tax credits and fees. Loans in the amounts of $250, $500, and $1,000 have an Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 0.00%. Loans in the amounts of 25%, 50% or 75% of your expected tax refund have an APR of 36.0% with a minimum loan of $1,250. For example, $2,500 loan representing 50% of expected refund borrowed over 33 day term, total amount payable in a single payment is $2,581.37 including interest. Availability is subject to satisfaction of identity verification, eligibility criteria, and underwriting standards.
2. Certain Refund Advance Loans are available at no cost to tax preparers and taxpayers, however other options include a marketing fee and consumer fee.
3. The FasterMoney Visa® Prepaid Card is issued by Pathward®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.
4. Pre-Acknowledgement Loans (approved prior to IRS Acknowledgement) have a $75 Marketing Fee.
5. A marketing fee of $34.95 applies for every approved In-Season advance with a refund transfer or loans without a refund transfer. $0 marketing fees require use of the FasterMoney® Visa® Prepaid Card for disbursement.