And pay as much as you can when you file, because interest and fees are based on the amount you finance, not your total tax bill. Not everyone owes money. Some of us expect refunds and here, too, which option you choose can make a big difference. But you pay heavily for the convenience. The fastest way to get a refund, without resorting to an anticipation loan, is to file your tax return electronically and authorizing the IRS to make a direct deposit into your personal bank account.
Direct deposit is also the way to go with a traditional paper return.