NewsNet5.comConsumer - Money
EducationEmploymentAutoHealthHealth ExpertsHouse And HomeWEDDINGSHomeTown ExpertsLegalCleveland247Real EstateDatingTravelFamily


Fast Tax Refunds May Cost More

Consumers Can Get Refund Quickly From IRS

POSTED: 4:53 p.m. EST March 15, 2002
UPDATED: 5:07 p.m. EST March 15, 2002

About 70 percent of Americans are expected to get tax refunds this year.

According to Troubleshooter Chris Caswell, many companies are advertising that they can get your refund back extra fast, but Caswell found out that the ads don't tell you the whole story.

For instance, an H&R Block commercial promises to give you the amount of your tax refund the same day you file.

The program is called Instant Money.

Jackson Hewitt, another big tax preparation company, offers super fast refunds when you want your refund in a hurry.

Consumer Reports found that even businesses that have nothing to do with taxes are offering speedy refunds, such as Nationwide Mattress and Furniture Warehouse.

"You have to realize that these are loans, often very expensive loans," said Kim Kleman of Consumer Reports. "You're likely to pay high interest rates and steep fees, which can take a big slice out of the money you're due."

Some of the fast refund fees you can face are: a tax preparation fee, an electronic filing fee, and interest charges on the loan. The interest rates can be hefty. A report from the Consumer Federation of America and the National Consumer Law Center found that the short-term loans can carry an annual percentage rate of about 67 to 74 percent.

"Paying a lot to get your refund back in a day or two is a waste of money," Kleman said. "You can deal directly with the IRS, get your refund in about 10 days without paying any loan fees."

Go to irs.gov for more information.




Links We Like

Sponsored Content
If you have aspirations of becoming a millionaire, check out these five habits that may be worth emulating. More Details

To get the most out of your remodel, check out these 10 home updates that have the biggest payoffs when it comes time to sell your home. More Details

Do you have concerns about the recommended vaccines for your child? Get the facts to clear up any confusion about vaccinations. More Details

If you're looking to save on your next new vehicle, a low sticker price is just one aspect. Consider all the costs and make the right decision. More Details

Sponsored Links

Best Local Rates On...



LocalNational

30 Yr Fixed Mortgage5.05%5.03%

48 Mo New Car Loan5.58%6.77%

$30k Home Eq Loan7.25%8.33%

6 Month CD1.03%1.13%
Help! I don't understand!
More Rates


Experian Credit Center
1. Make sure possible inaccuracies aren't hurting your credit

2. Detect potential identity theft

3. Stay on top of your credit without hurting your score

See your Free Credit Report online in seconds when you sign up for a free 30-day credit monitoring trial!

Sponsor

Sponsor

Low Interest Cards

And not just because plastic outweighs paper. Low interest credit cards offer lower APRs, which means more of your money stays in your wallet. More Details

CreditCards.com

E-Mail News

Get E-Mail News Headlines When YOU Want Them
 Breaking News Alerts
Noon Headlines
Daily Forecast

Find Local Businesses