Make tax season less taxing: 6 tips for a faster refund

2. E-file and choose direct deposit

The fastest way to file and receive your refund is to e-file and select direct deposit. According to the IRS, e-filing reduces errors because the software does the calculations for you. Plus, choosing direct deposit ensures your refund arrives faster than waiting for a check in the mail. Need your direct deposit details? You can find them in Solarity’s online banking. If you prefer a paper check, use the Solarity mobile app to deposit it from home—no branch visit needed.

3. Maximize your deductions and credits

Make sure you’re taking advantage of all available tax deductions and credits, like the Child Tax Credit and Education Credits. A little research now can help you keep more of your hard-earned money.

4. Don’t forget: You can still contribute to your IRA for last year

If you're looking for a smart way to lower your taxable income while saving for retirement, you still have time. The IRS allows contributions to Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) for the previous tax year until April 15, 2025. That means you can add to your savings and potentially reduce what you owe for 2024. Maximize your contribution with a Solarity IRA Certificate, which offers a guaranteed rate and low fees to help your retirement grow steadily without the stress of market volatility.

5. Watch out for tax scams

Tax season is prime time for fraudsters. Be cautious of phone calls, emails or texts claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS will never contact you by email, social media or text messages. They use the U.S. Postal Service for official communication. Visit the IRS website to report scams or verify if a message is legitimate.

6. Double-check your return

Errors or missing information can delay your refund and cause processing headaches. Before submitting your return, take a few extra minutes to:

• Review your personal details (Social Security number, bank info, etc.)
• Ensure all forms and credits are included
• Double-check your math (if filing manually)

By following these steps, you’ll file with confidence and get your refund as quickly as possible.

Helpful IRS resources for filing your 2024 taxes

Check out these official IRS links for tips, tools and filing assistance:

• Top things to know when filing your 2024 tax return
• Common tax law questions – answers to frequently asked tax questions
• Electronic filing options for individuals – learn about e-filing and free file programs
• Tax tips and resources for a smoother filing process