Thinking about using TurboTax to file your taxes and wondering how fast you can get your refund? If you’re counting on that money for bills, debt repayment or just some breathing room, TurboTax Advance might be just what you need.
This refund advance loan gives you early access to a portion of your federal tax refund — often within minutes of filing — with no interest, no fees and no credit check.
Here’s everything you need to know about TurboTax Advance, how it works, who qualifies and how to apply.
What Is TurboTax Advance?
TurboTax Advance, also known as TurboTax Refund Advance, is a short-term loan backed by your expected federal tax refund. It’s available to eligible TurboTax users who file their taxes with TurboTax and choose to have their refund deposited into a Credit Karma Money checking account.
How It Works
- You file your taxes with TurboTax.
- If you’re approved, you can receive an advance of up to $4,000 based on your estimated refund.
- The advance is deposited into a Credit Karma Money checking account, sometimes in as little as 60 seconds after IRS acceptance.
- When your full refund arrives, it repays the advance automatically.
There are no interest charges, no loan fees and no impact on your credit score.
TurboTax vs. Traditional Refund Loans
Traditional refund loans offered by tax prep companies like H&R Block or Jackson Hewitt often come with fees, interest, or credit checks. TurboTax Advance stands out by being completely free and faster — with potential access in under an hour.
| Feature | TurboTax Advance | H&R Block Refund Advance | Jackson Hewitt Early Refund Loan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Advance | $4,000 | $3,500 | $1,000 (early loan) |
| Fees | $0 | $0 (but fees for prep) | May apply |
| Credit Check | No | Soft pull | Soft pull |
| Speed | As fast as 1 min | 1-2 days | Same day |
When Can You Apply for TurboTax Advance?
TurboTax Advance is usually available from early January to mid-February, though exact dates vary yearly. You must file your taxes during the eligible window and meet all qualifications to apply.
How Fast Do You Get the Money?
According to TurboTax, most approved users receive their advance within minutes of IRS acceptance.
However, timing depends on how quickly the IRS accepts your return. Payout speed can be affected by:
- Filing early
- Accuracy of your return
- Use of direct deposit into a Credit Karma Money account
TurboTax Advance Loan Amounts
Here’s a breakdown of how much you might qualify for, based on your estimated refund:
| Estimated Refund | Advance Amount |
|---|---|
| $500 – $999 | $250 |
| $1,000 – $1,499 | $500 |
| $2,000 – $2,999 | $1,000 |
| $4,000 – $4,999 | $2,000 |
| $8,000+ | $4,000 |
Is TurboTax Advance Free?
Yes — the loan itself comes with zero interest or fees. But there are still tax prep costs to consider.
TurboTax offers different filing packages. To qualify for the advance, you must select a paid package, like TurboTax Deluxe, Premier or Self-Employed.
Example With Costs and Net Refund
Let’s say your refund is $3,500:
- Advance: $1,000 (deposited right away)
- Tax prep cost: $119 for TurboTax Deluxe with state return
- Net refund after costs and advance: $2,381 (once IRS sends full refund)
Who Is Eligible for TurboTax Advance?
| Eligibility Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Requirements | Expect a federal refund of at least $500 |
| Must e-file with TurboTax and use direct deposit | |
| Must open a Credit Karma Money checking account | |
| Disqualifying Tax Forms | Filing Form 2555 (Foreign Earned Income) |
| Filing Form 8938 (Foreign Assets) | |
| Claims involving injured spouse relief | |
| State Restrictions | Not available in North Carolina or Connecticut due to state rules |
How To Apply for TurboTax Advance
- Start your return using a TurboTax paid plan.
- Choose direct deposit and agree to open a Credit Karma Money account.
- After you file and the IRS accepts your return, you’ll be evaluated for the advance.
- If approved, funds are deposited instantly into your account.
Is TurboTax Advance Worth It?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast access to cash (as fast as 1 minute) | Only available during a short window |
| No interest or fees | Must use a paid TurboTax plan |
| Doesn’t affect your credit | Limited to users eligible for Credit Karma Money account |
| Available for refunds as low as $500 | Advance amount depends on your refund size |
TurboTax vs. Other Refund Loans
If you’re comparing refund loan options, TurboTax is often the fastest and least expensive. Other providers may charge interest or delay deposits.
Final Take: Should You Use TurboTax Advance?
If you’re expecting a federal tax refund and need quick access to cash, TurboTax Advance can be a smart, no-cost way to bridge the gap. With fast approval, no interest or fees and refund advances up to $4,000, it’s especially valuable for filers who count on their refund to cover bills or pay down debt.
Still weighing your options? Compare TurboTax Advance to other tax refund loans, or check out our guide to the fastest ways to get your tax refund before filing.
If you’re ready to move forward, visit TurboTax Refund Advance and get started today.
FAQs About TurboTax Advance
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about TurboTax Advance and how it works:- How fast can I get my TurboTax Advance refund?
- As quickly as 1 minute after IRS acceptance.
- Do I have to pay back the TurboTax Advance loan?
- Yes, but it’s repaid automatically when your full IRS refund hits your Credit Karma Money account.
- Does TurboTax Advance affect my credit?
- No, there’s no credit check or reporting.
- What if my actual refund is less than expected?
- You’re still responsible for repaying the loan. TurboTax may deduct the difference from your account.
- Can I use TurboTax Advance without Credit Karma?
- No. The advance is only offered with a Credit Karma Money checking account.
Allison Hache contributed to the reporting of this article.
Information is accurate as of June 5, 2025.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.