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The question was popped, the answer was yes, and now you’re ready to plan your dream wedding. Which means it’s probably time to set up a meet-and-greet between your vision board and your bank account.

Wedding costs can add up quickly, and if you’re just winging it, it’s easy to get carried away. Using a wedding cost calculator as you work through the planning process can help you manage your money better and create a more realistic budget.

Read on for a breakdown of the costs you can expect as you prepare for your big day.

How Much Will My Wedding Cost?

The cost of a wedding depends on several factors, including where you live, your wedding date, and the size of your guest list. If you go all-out with a big bridal party, designer duds, and a reception for 200-plus, your bill could be significantly more than the current median of $10,000. If you decide to go with a simple ceremony at City Hall, on the other hand, followed by a modest dinner with a few friends, your total spend will likely fall way below the typical wedding cost.

What Does the Average Wedding Cost?

The most recent SoFi survey found that the median wedding cost is $10,000. But again, that number can vary widely.

The popular wedding website The Knot says couples who live in the South typically spend a bit less on their wedding, while those who live in bigger cities, particularly in the Northeast, can expect higher costs. Trying to match or exceed the standards set by others in your social group can also affect your bottom line.

Recommended: Is It Smart to Finance a Wedding?

What Goes into a Wedding Cost Calculator?

A wedding cost calculator uses average wedding costs to help couples break down the expenses they can expect to encounter as they plan their wedding. This budgeting tool can assist couples and their families in prioritizing how they want to spend their money. (Is a designer dress a must? Is a buffet or sit-down dinner a better choice? How many guests can you really afford?)

You also can use a wedding calculator/budget as a checklist to ensure you’ve covered all the details, so there aren’t any surprises (or unexpected wedding expenses) as you close in on the big day.

Recommended: 52-Week Savings Challenge

How to Calculate Wedding Costs

To keep things in perspective and set reasonable priorities, you may want to start by designating a certain percentage of your overall budget for each cost category. A $2,000 dress, for example, would be 10% of a $20,000 budget. A $10,000 reception (venue, catering, music, etc.) would take up 50%. That would leave you 40%, or $8,000, for the rest of your costs (the tux, flowers, photography, etc.).

Knowing the average costs for various categories can also help you fine-tune your budget and save for your wedding. Here’s a look at some of the most common wedding expenditures.

Before the Big Day

You can count on racking up some wedding bills long before you hear wedding bells. (Which is why it can be helpful to use a spending app as soon as you start planning.) Here are some costs you may incur early on in your preparations:

Save the Date Cards: If you want to let your guests know waaay ahead that your big day is coming up, sending “save-the-date” alerts can help. Postcards can cost $1 each, not including postage. (Costs per item typically go down when you order more.)

Invitations: Two major factors will affect the cost of sending out wedding invitations: An elaborate invitation or one that’s designed just for you will cost more than a standard design. And, of course, you’ll pay more for invitations and postage if you have a large guest list. (Don’t forget to put stamps on the RSVP cards included in each invite.) You could end up paying from $256 to $312 for 100 to 150 invitations, but costs can go higher for more intricate or customized designs.

Wedding Planner: How much would you be willing to pay to hand over some of the stress of planning your wedding to a professional? U.S. couples spend an average of $2,100 for their wedding planner’s services, but your price may vary depending on your planner’s expertise and level of involvement, and the size of your wedding.

Marriage Ceremony

Though it’s what the big day is all about, and the reason friends and family have gathered, it can be easy to overlook the actual wedding ceremony when budgeting. Here are some costs to keep in mind:

Marriage License: This document, which authorizes a couple to marry, can cost anywhere from $20 to $110. You can get your exact cost by calling the issuance office in the county where you plan to marry. In some states, you may be able to lower the cost by taking a marriage preparation course.

Officiant Fee: The officiant is the person who is legally authorized to perform your ceremony. It can be the minister at your church or someone who performs weddings as a full-time or side gig. Officiant fees can vary from about $100 to $1,000, with most professionals charging between $500 and $800.

Ceremony Venue: Unless you exchange vows at the same location as your reception, you’ll likely have to budget a separate amount for this venue, whether it’s your church, the beach, a private garden, or a public park. The cost will depend on the location and how long you use the space. (Even if it’s a public place, you may have to pay for a permit to hold your ceremony there, or a by-the-hour rental fee.)

Churches typically ask for a “donation,” which can be a mandatory amount or pay-what-you-wish deal. Unless you’re headed to the courthouse, be prepared to pay between $300 to $1,000-plus to use a house of worship for a ceremony venue. One recent survey by the Knot found private venues averaging $12,800, which is more than the median cost of some weddings.

Decorations: The cost of decorating for your ceremony will depend on how elaborate you want to get — and what your venue will allow. For example, flowers alone can cost an average of $2,800 for a wedding, and if you want other decor, it will add to the tab.

Ceremony Music: You’ll likely want to have some kind of live music at your ceremony — maybe a soloist, the church organist, a quartet, or a band. The cost for music can vary significantly depending on how big you go, and can range from $300 to $700, depending on whether a soloist or band and the length of time they play.

Reception

The reception is typically the largest wedding expense and can include several subcategories — from food and entertainment to decorations and, of course, the cost of renting the venue where guests will gather to celebrate.

Some all-inclusive venues charge one price for catering, decorations, and more. If you have to hire multiple vendors, though, you’ll need to keep these separate costs in mind:

Venue: Depending on the size and location of the hall, country club, restaurant, etc., you can expect to pay $2,500 to $7,500 just to rent the space for your party.

Catering: The cost of feeding your guests will depend on what you serve (appetizers or a full meal) and how it’s served (buffet or by a waitstaff). Costs can range from $70 to $150 per person at high-end venues, though taking a simpler or potluck approach can bring costs down significantly. You may have to pay extra to rent serving equipment or pay waitstaff at some venues.

Drinks: If you decide to offer an open bar with unlimited alcoholic beverages, you can expect to pay $20 to $30 per person, or more.

Entertainment: Couples often argue over whether to hire a DJ or band — and cost can be the deciding factor. A DJ might charge up to $1,000 or more, depending on their popularity, equipment, and how long they’re expected to keep the party going. A live band generally charges more, often running from $1,000 to $5,000. (You may have to pay more if you have to rent sound or lighting equipment.)

Decorations: If you decide to add decorations to the venue (with ribbons, confetti, balloons, etc.), you will likely have to pay extra — from $100 to $1,000 or more. A floral centerpiece for each table might incur a separate cost, so it’s important to be clear about what’s included in your package.

Recommended: Wedding Gift Etiquette

Wedding Cake

The cake you choose for your wedding is about much more than dessert. Cutting the cake is a fun tradition and it can be a great photo opp. Design, size, the number of tiers, and delivery can all impact the cost, but plan to spend on average $500 for a wedding cake, according to 2024 data.

Photographer/Videographer

If you’re hoping to capture the best moments of your wedding, you may want to make the photographer, and maybe videographer, one of your budget priorities. Depending on the package you choose, you can expect to pay from $1,500 to $3,000 for wedding photos, though the Knot found couples spending an average of $2,900. A videographer can cost in a similar price range.

Flowers

We covered the cost of using flowers to decorate for the ceremony and reception above. Here are some other costs to consider:

Bridal Bouquet: The bride’s flowers are in the spotlight throughout the day — in photos, during the ceremony, and even at the reception. For the bouquet of your dreams, you can expect to pay an average of $250.

Boutonnieres for the Guys: If the groom will be wearing a suit or tux, a boutonniere is almost a must, and it will run from $10 to $30. Multiply that price by the number of men in the wedding party if Dad and the other guys will get them, too.

Bridesmaids Bouquets: These smaller bouquets typically cost about $80 each.

Corsages: Corsages, which can be a nice way to recognize special family members and friends, may cost $20 to $40 each.

Petals for Flower Girl: A bundle of rose petals for the flower girl to scatter can cost $20 to $25.

Bride’s Wedding Outfit

The bride’s outfit — the dress, veil, shoes, jewelry, and more — often takes up a significant amount of the wedding budget. The bride’s wedding dress alone can cost, on average, $1,800 to $2,400, though more expensive options are definitely out there. And that’s before alterations, which can add a couple of hundred dollars.

Groom’s Wedding Outfit

The groom’s gear generally reflects the formality of the wedding, but most men still wear a tux or suit. Purchasing a new tux can cost $200 to $500 or more. And tailoring may cost extra. Renting a tux can cost $100 to $200 or more.

Wedding Party Costs

Traditionally, members of the wedding party pay for their own outfits, but there may be other expenses you decide to cover if you want to help out with the cost of being in the wedding.

For example, if you’re hiring someone to do the bride’s hair and makeup (average cost: $300), and you choose to include the bridesmaids, you can expect to pay about $150 per person. As with most wedding-day costs, however, you’ll likely encounter a wide range of prices.

Transportation

If you and your wedding party hope to travel in style on your wedding day, you want to look into renting a limo, horse-drawn carriage, party bus, or some other type of transportation. Couples spend an average of $750 for wedding day transportation for a small event, but costs will vary based on location, how many vehicles you need, and how many hours you need them.

Wedding Insurance

Once you start budgeting for your wedding, you may decide it makes sense to purchase insurance to protect your investment. Wedding insurance can cover you for several worse-case scenarios. The cost of this type of special-event coverage depends on what you decide to include in your policy. The average cost of a wedding insurance policy is $75 to $550, depending on the type of coverage and cost of the event.

Total Wedding Cost Example

Until you start making calls and getting price quotes, it will be challenging to get even a rough estimate of how much your wedding will cost in total. But the sooner you start filling in some of the blanks on your budget, the sooner you’ll be able to prioritize where you want your money to go — and get a better idea of what the final bill will be.

Here’s an example of what a couple trying to determine a budget between about $14,000 and $24,000 and a guest list of 50 might come up with.

How to Save Money on Your Wedding

How can you keep your dream wedding from totaling up to a nightmare cost? Here are a few ways to lower the bottom line:

Ask Friends and Family for Help

Do you know someone who’s great at taking photos? Is your cousin an amazing singer? What about a friend who’s a talented baker and cake decorator? If you can find people you trust to take the place of pricier pros, you may be able to reduce some costs — or avoid them entirely.

Eliminate Some of the Extras

If you can do your own hair and makeup, get yourself to the wedding, and/or design and print your own invitations (or go paperless), you may be able to cut some costs without asking for help.

Downsize the Guest List

This can be a tough one, but trimming your guest list is a sure way to trim costs. Consider asking your friends to leave their kids at home, or gently telling your guests that you’re keeping the plus-ones to a minimum.

Go Off the Beaten Path

Choosing an off-peak wedding date; an unusual (and therefore more affordable) wedding venue; or a wedding dress from a department store or consignment shop can save you big bucks.

Recommended: Free Credit Score Monitoring

The Takeaway

A wedding is a cause for celebration, but the costs can quickly get out of hand, so it’s a good idea to start your planning with a realistic budget. Median costs have recently been found to be $10,000 or so, but some gatherings cost multiples of that. Once a budget is set, though, as you go through the planning process, you can use your budget tracker to stay on top of your actual costs — and stay in sync with your other financial goals. In our example above, wedding costs totaled between $14,000 and $24,000 for an event with 50 guests, depending on the extras the couple decided to opt into.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

What is a realistic budget for a wedding?

A realistic wedding budget will be different for every couple. A wedding might cost $10,000 or several multiples of that, depending on the size of the wedding, the location, and other factors.

Is $10,000 a reasonable wedding budget?

You may have to be pickier about splurges than a couple with more to spend, but by setting your priorities early and using a budget tracker, you can get a strong start on sticking to your $10,000 wedding goal.

How do I pay for a wedding I can’t afford?

There are a few different ways you can pay for a wedding if you don’t have enough cash in the bank. One popular option is to take out a personal loan to pay for wedding expenses. Another is to apply for a credit card with a 0% introductory interest rate, which will allow you to pay off the balance interest-free for up to 18 months. Or you might consider waiting until you’ve saved enough to pay all your costs without borrowing.

Photo credit: iStock/Arisara_Tongdonnoi

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.


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SORL-Q125-010

If you’re expecting a refund from the IRS, you shouldn’t have to wait too long for your money. According to the IRS, it issues most refunds within three weeks of receiving your filing. Key to receiving your refund quickly are two actions on your part: using e-file and providing your bank info for direct deposit.

In fact, a directly deposited refund can show up in less than 21 days.

This table shows the estimated times for receiving an IRS tax refund depending on how you file and choose to get your refund:

What Money Will Be Included In My Tax Refund This Year?

Of course, the size of your refund depends on how much you overpaid. But the average refund for individuals in 2024 was $2,850. That figure is up slightly from 2023, when the average tax refund was $2,753.

To get your refund faster, you may want to file earlier, rather than waiting until the last minute. Typically, the tax season, when the IRS starts accepting and processing returns, starts in late January.

When your refund does arrive, an online budget planner can help you keep track of where your money is going.

Reasons for Your Tax Refund to be Delayed

People typically receive their tax refund two weeks after the IRS accepts their tax filing if they opt to receive a direct deposit, or in three weeks if they choose to get a check in the mail. But if you’re still waiting after that point and wondering where your tax refund is, here are a few possible reasons for the delay:

•   If anything in your return is incomplete or incorrect, the IRS may need to give the return further review before sending you a refund check. In this case, you may get a notice from the IRS in the mail with instructions for fixing or completing your tax return. It may take up to four months for the IRS to process returns that require extra handling. The sooner you respond to the IRS request for information, the sooner your return will be processed.

•   If you are claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, there may be a delay in receiving your tax refund. The IRS is required to hold any tax returns for people claiming those two tax credits until mid-February. This hold will show up in the “Where’s My Refund” tool on the IRS site if it applies to you.

•   Your bank or credit union may take more time to post a refund to your account. The time for posting IRS refunds varies from institution to institution.

Recommended: IRS Tax Refund Dates and Deadlines

How to Use the ‘Where’s my Refund’ Tool on the IRS Site

The IRS has a “Where’s My Refund” tool on irs.gov where anyone can check and see the status of their tax refund. It can also be accessed using the IRS2Go mobile app. If you submit your tax return electronically, you can easily check on the status of your refund online within 24 hours of filing. If you mail your tax return, it will take about a month or longer for any information about refunds to show up on the IRS site.

In order to access your refund information on the IRS website, you will need to input your social security number, tax filing status, and the dollar amount that you expect to receive on the return. Double check your information before submitting it: If the wrong social security number is entered, this could result in an error, extra identity verification steps, and even a delay in receiving your tax refund.

What Do the IRS Tax Return Statuses Mean?

There are three different IRS tax return statuses that you will see when you use the Where’s My Refund tool. Here’s what they mean:

Received

Once the IRS has received a return, it is marked as received. You can check to see if your return has been received using the “Where’s My Refund” tool on the IRS site.

Approved

Once the IRS processes a tax return and there are no errors or missing information, it is marked as approved. At that point, the process of sending a refund by mail or direct deposit can begin.

Sent

When the IRS mails out a refund check or sends a direct deposit refund, the tax return status is marked as “sent.”

How to Contact the IRS About Your Tax Refund

It’s best to wait at least 21 days after filing your return electronically, and six weeks after mailing your return, to contact the IRS by phone. At that point, you can call the IRS refund hotline at 800-829-1954.

Recommended: 41 Things to Do With Your Tax Refund

The Takeaway

Knowing when you’ll receive your tax refund can be helpful if you’re planning to use the money to pay off debt, create a budget, or save for a big purchase. Filing your return electronically and opting to get your refund via direct deposit will allow you to get your return quickly, typically within three weeks. A money tracker app can help you manage your finances, including your refund, and track your spending and savings.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

How quickly will I get my refund?

Most refunds are sent within three weeks of the IRS receiving a tax filing, but it can sometimes take longer, especially if you mail your return or opt to get your refund by check through the mail.

It’s been longer than 21 days since the IRS received my return and I haven’t gotten my refund. Why?

Sometimes the IRS needs to manually review tax returns if they are incomplete, have errors, or if fraud is suspected. Also, if a taxpayer claims certain tax credits, such as the Earned Income Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, his or her return may take longer to process.

Will calling help me get my refund any faster?

Calling may help you track where your refund is, but it won’t necessarily help you get it faster. Wait at least 21 days after filing your return electronically, and six weeks after mailing your return to contact the IRS by phone. You can call the IRS refund hotline at 800-829-1954.

Photo credit: iStock/rez-art

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL-Q125-001

There’s no denying that filing taxes can be stressful, which is why many people turn to a tax preparer to help them navigate the process. This professional can offer extra reassurance that your taxes are filed properly and may even help you maximize your refund.

But can a tax preparer file your taxes without your signature? In short, yes, they can. Keep reading to learn more about signature requirements for tax filing.

What Is a Tax Preparer?

A tax preparer is a certified public accountant (CPA), attorney, enrolled agent, or other professional who is paid to prepare income tax returns for an individual or business. The tax preparer must have an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) in order to prepare federal tax returns.

Tax preparers gain access to very personal information such as income and social security numbers, so this isn’t a relationship you’ll want to enter without careful consideration. Before you hire one, do your research. The IRS provides an online directory where you can find tax preparers who are near you or who have certain qualifications. You may also want to ask trusted friends and family members for referrals.

While many tax preparers can handle different types of taxes, it’s best to confirm that the tax preparer is experienced in the areas you need before hiring them. After all, a small business owner will likely have very different tax needs than an individual filing a W-2.

Recommended: Income Tax: What Is It and How Does It Work?

What Qualifies as a Signed Tax Return?

Whether you’re preparing for tax season or are in the middle of filing your return, you probably already know how important it is to get your taxes done properly. The final step in the filing process that really can’t be skipped is signing the income tax return. If you file your taxes on your own, you need to sign the tax return. If a tax preparer helps you file your taxes, they need to sign the tax return and include their PTIN. If the return isn’t signed, the IRS won’t consider it valid.

Can a Tax Preparer File Your Taxes Without Your Signature?

Depending on their experience and area of expertise, a tax preparer may be able to offer guidance on different ways to save on taxes or help you make sense of complicated topics like income tax withholding. But these professionals can also offer a degree of convenience by signing a client’s tax return themselves and submitting it without their client’s signature. If you choose to work with a tax preparer, you’ll want to have their signature and PTIN on the tax return as proof that they prepared it.

How Do I Know if My Tax Preparer Filed My Taxes?

Tax preparers can provide peace of mind that your taxes are filed properly and hopefully help you maximize your tax refund and find potential tax breaks, like the earned income tax credit.

But if you’re wondering whether your tax preparer filed your taxes, there are ways to find out. The IRS Where’s My Refund tool , for instance, allows you to check the status of your return. You can also find out this information by calling the IRS directly. And be sure to check your inbox. If your return was filed, you should receive a confirmation and status updates by email, as long as you provided an email address.

Recommended: Guide to Filing Your Taxes for the First Time

Will the IRS Accept an Unsigned Tax Return?

What happens if you submit an income tax return — whether accidentally or on purpose — without any signature on it? The bad news is, the IRS does not accept unsigned income tax returns. The agency typically sends back the tax return with a notice asking you to sign and resubmit the return so it can be processed. If you fail to sign your tax return but file it on time, you likely will not be hit with a delinquency penalty, which can be good news for your budget.

Of course, working with a tax preparer isn’t the only way to take control of your finances. SoFi’s money tracker app can also help you stay on track year-round. You can keep tabs on multiple account balances — and your credit scores — in one place. You can also set savings goals and review your spending, so there are no surprises come tax time.

Recommended: What Happens If I Miss the Tax Filing Deadline?

The Takeaway

A tax preparer can help you navigate the tax filing process and, hopefully, maximize your refund. These professionals can also sign your tax return and submit it without your signature, though you may choose to sign it as well. If you want to check the status of your return, you can use the IRS Where’s My Refund tool, call the agency directly, or check your inbox. The IRS typically emails a confirmation and status updates on your return, as long as you provided an email address when you filed.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

Can a tax preparer e-file your taxes without your signature?

Yes, a tax preparer can e-file a client’s taxes without their signature. The key here is that the tax preparer must sign the income tax return in order for it to be eligible for processing. The tax preparer’s certification number also has to be included on the tax return. If the tax preparer does not sign the income tax return, the taxpayer must sign it before it can be e-filed.

What should you do if a tax preparer files your taxes without your consent?

If you believe a tax preparer filed your taxes without your consent, you should report it to the IRS using Form 14157-A, Tax Return Preparer Fraud or Misconduct Affidavit, in addition to Form 14157.

Will the IRS accept an unsigned tax return?

No, the IRS will not accept an unsigned income tax return as they don’t consider it valid. If someone tries to file an unsigned tax return, the IRS will send it back and request a signature. The taxpayer or their tax preparer must sign the income tax return for it to be valid.

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.


Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.


External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL-Q125-006

According to the IRS, approximately 90% of tax refunds are issued in under 21 days. However, some tax returns require more attention, which can lengthen the process and push back your tax refund date.

The deadline for filing 2024 taxes is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. If you request an extension, the deadline is Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Keep reading to learn more about deadlines for 2024 tax returns, and how to track the progress of your tax refund.

Tax Refund Process, Explained

The process begins when you submit your return to the IRS. The IRS then breaks down the process into three steps: return received, refund approved, and refund sent.

If you file electronically, you should receive an email confirming that your return was received within 24 hours. Paper return filers will have to wait longer.

After the IRS processes your return and confirms the information, your refund will be approved and a tax refund date will be issued. This takes about 3 weeks for electronic filers. Taxpayers who file a paper return by mail will wait at least four weeks.

The last step is when your tax refund is sent out. For filers who provide direct deposit information, your refund should appear in your account almost immediately. Taxpayers who do not include their bank information will have to wait for a paper check to arrive by mail.

Factors Impacting How Long a Tax Refund Takes

Several factors can affect the timing of your tax refund — including your financial organization skills and the accuracy of the information you provide. If you don’t receive your tax refund within 21 days, your return is likely being manually reviewed due to a mistake or complication.

The following factors can also affect your 2024 tax refund date.

How Early You File

Filing early is essential if you want to get your tax refund early. Ideally, you should be able to compile all your tax documents by the end of January. Forms such as W-2s, 1099-Rs, 1098-Es, and 1098s will provide the income information you need to file.

Filing early means submitting your tax return before the official deadline of Tuesday, April 15, 2025, for your 2024 tax return. Since many taxpayers file their returns on the official deadline, filing early allows you to beat the rush.

Similarly, if you requested an extension, filing “early” means before the October deadline. The deadline for 2024 returns is Wednesday, October 15, 2025. However, taxpayers can file anytime before October. This way, you’ll avoid the bottleneck that inevitably occurs on the deadline itself.

If You Are Claiming Certain Credits

Claiming certain credits on your tax return can push back your 2024 tax refund date. These include:

•   Earned Income Tax Credit

•   Additional Child Tax Credit

•   Injured Spouse Allocation

•   Child Tax Credit, if you claim the wrong amount

E-filed or Sent By Mail

Whether you do your own taxes by hand, use software to assist you, or hire an accountant or tax preparer, it’s best to opt for electronic filing. E-filed taxes are accepted by the IRS within a day or two, while mailed paper returns can take weeks to arrive.

Existing Government Debt

Some taxpayers owe the federal or state government due to unpaid child support, taxes from years past, or student loan payments. Taxpayers facing these issues will receive a reduced refund or none at all, and any refund can take longer than the standard 21-day timeframe after e-filing.

How to Track the Progress of Your Refund

If you’re like most taxpayers, it won’t take long until you start wondering where their tax refund is. Getting hold of a live IRS representative by phone is possible but challenging during tax season.

Fortunately, the IRS’s Refund Status tool provides updates on your 2025 tax refund date just 24 hours after you submit your 2024 taxes electronically.

The tool shows taxpayers one of three statuses: return received, refund approved, or refund sent. After the refund is approved, the IRS will give you a tax refund date. If you mailed your return, you’ll have to wait about four weeks for the tool to provide information on your refund.

What to Do Once Your Refund Arrives

How should I spend my tax refund? It’s a perennial question for taxpayers. Top choices include paying down debt, saving for a vacation, and investing. The important thing is to plan ahead so you don’t spend it all on frivolous or impulsive purchases.

One popular option is to treat your refund like regular income. You can budget the majority of the money for “needs” by setting up an emergency fund or paying down your mortgage. The rest can be set aside for “wants,” such as a year’s worth of dining out.

An online budget planner can help you decide the appropriate percentages for needs and wants. Likewise, a debt pay off planner can show you how much sooner you’ll be debt-free after depositing some or all of your refund.

What Happens If You Can’t File Income Taxes by the Deadline

Each year, taxpayers unable to file their return on time (usually mid-April) can ask the IRS for an extension. The IRS’s Free File tool allows you to electronically submit a request to change your filing deadline to October.

Be aware that taxpayers who want an extension must make an educated guess about the taxes they owe and pay the IRS that amount.

How to File Form 4868 for a Tax Return Extension

Another way to file for an extension is to complete form 4868. You can submit the form electronically or by mail.

The Takeaway

While you cannot predict your exact tax refund date, filing electronically early in the tax season can help you get your refund faster. The IRS sends out most refunds within 21 days of receiving the return. The deadline for filing 2024 taxes is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. If you request an extension, the deadline for filing a 2024 tax return is Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

When should I expect my 2025 tax refund?

Typically, you can expect to receive your refund within 21 days of filing your return. However, mistakes and special tax credits can slow down the process.

What days does the IRS deposit refunds in 2025?

The IRS deposits refunds Monday through Friday, except for holidays.

How long does it take the IRS to approve a refund in 2025?

Most refunds are issued in 21 days or less from when the IRS accepts your return. However, if there are issues with the return, it may take longer.

About the author

Ashley Kilroy

Ashley Kilroy is a seasoned personal finance writer with 15 years of experience simplifying complex concepts for individuals seeking financial security. Her expertise has shined through in well-known publications like Rolling Stone, Forbes, SmartAsset, and Money Talks News. Read full bio.

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Filling out a tax return can be a challenging task. What’s more, unless you’re a tax expert, you may be unaware of how you can use tax laws to reduce how much you pay to the Internal Revenue Service. That’s why, come tax season, many people enlist the help of a tax preparer.

What does a tax preparer do? Services run the gamut from ensuring documents are mistake-free to spotting and claiming potential tax benefits to filing income tax returns on behalf of their client.

Here’s a look at the different types of income tax preparers, the pros and cons of hiring one, and under what circumstances they can help their clients pay less to the IRS.

What Is an Income Tax Preparer?

A tax preparer completes and files income tax documents and forms for clients. People use tax preparers because they are experts in tax rules and know how to use those rules to claim deductions or credits on tax returns.

That’s why, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), 54% of all individual tax returns filed in 2023 were prepared by paid preparers.

Recommended: What Are the Different Types of Taxes?

Credentialed Tax Preparers

Credentialed tax preparers tend to work full time on tax- and accounting-related tasks. There are three types of credentialed tax preparers: Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), Enrolled Agents (EAs), and tax attorneys. CPAs receive certification from state boards, EAs receive certification from the IRS, and state bar associations license tax attorneys.

CPAs

CPAs are certified by a state government as having the required expertise to maintain financial records, certify financial statements, and conduct tax and financial audits.

CPAs must pass the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination, a comprehensive test given by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Most states require CPAs to pass an ethics exam and stay up to date on changing accounting and tax laws.

CPAS can also represent clients on tax and IRS issues, such as tax audits, payment and collection issues, and appeals.

Enrolled Agents (EA)

An EA obtains licensing from the IRS to represent clients before the IRS. To become an EA, an individual must pass the IRS’ Special Enrollment Examination or have qualifying work experience if they were an employee of the IRS. Once certified by the IRS, EAs are required to stay up to date on changes in the tax law by completing at least 16 hours of continuing education each year, or 72 hours of continuing education every three years.

Tax Attorneys

Tax attorneys specialize in tax law, advise clients on the legal aspects of their taxes, and prepare their clients’ tax returns. They can represent their clients before the IRS on all tax matters. Tax attorneys have a law degree, have passed a state exam, acquired a state license, and keep up with updates to the tax code through ongoing education.

Non-Credentialed Tax Preparers

Non-credentialed tax professionals are not licensed or certified by a third-party organization and tend to be self-taught. These individuals may have worked for a tax store during tax season but may not be involved in tax-related work full time.

Non-credentialed tax preparers include Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program volunteers, tax accountants not certified by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), and Annual Filing Season Program participants.

What Does a Tax Preparer Do?

In addition to preparing, completing, and filing tax documents for their clients, income tax preparers also advise their clients on how they can reduce their tax liability in the coming year.

Preparing tax documents and returns requires calculating tax brackets, credits, deductibles, and liabilities. However, income tax preparers are also responsible for making sure tax reports comply with government tax rules and regulations. For example, there are strict due diligence requirements when certain tax benefits are claimed, such as earned income tax credit, or when an individual claims head-of-household status.

Following due diligence requires interviewing clients to verify the information they are providing, such as earnings, tax withholdings, and dependents, to gather supplemental documentation that back up the claims.

Recommended: What Tax Bracket Am I In?

How Much Does It Cost to File Taxes with a Tax Preparer?

How much you pay a tax preparer depends on who you use and what services they provide. For example, credentialed tax attorneys and CPAs will likely charge more than a seasonal worker or non-credentialed preparer. A credentialed preparer will also have more expertise and can take on more complex tasks, such as representing the client in tax resolution cases.

A tax preparer might charge a flat fee for a tax return or an hourly rate. Also, the more complex your taxes, the more a preparer may charge.

Where you live can affect the amount charged by a tax preparer. Fees tend to be higher on the West coast and in New England, and lower in the Southeast.

Wondering how to cover the cost of a tax preparer? A spending app can help you create budgets, organize your spending, manage bills, and more.

Pros and Cons of Hiring an Income Tax Preparer?

There are several advantages to hiring an income tax preparer, though there are some potential disadvantages, too.

Pros

•   Using a tax preparer could save you time.

•   Using a tax preparer minimizes errors on your return, which can help protect you from an audit.

•   You may save money if the tax preparer finds ways to reduce the amount of tax you pay.

•   The cost of using a tax preparer is often deductible.

Cons

•   The cost of working with a tax preparer may be high if your taxes are complex.

•   It might be difficult to find an available licensed tax preparer during tax time.

•   A non-credentialed tax preparer may not be able to take the time to fully understand your situation.

•   Some tax preparers could be frauds, so always check their credentials.

What Are the Job Requirements to Become an Income Tax Preparer?

A credentialed income tax preparer typically has a degree in finance or accounting. They also must have a thorough knowledge of the tax system and be up to date on the latest rules and changes. Tax preparers must also be familiar with tax software, Excel, and other tools and information resources.

What Skills Do Tax Preparers Need?

Tax preparers need to be skilled with numbers and in dealing with clients. They are required to interview clients and ask them sometimes intrusive questions to verify that the information they are providing about income and lifestyle is true.

Tax preparers must also have in-depth knowledge of the tax code and the tax benefits that apply to various situations and be able to apply those rules using their analytical and mathematical skills.

When Is Hiring an Income Tax Preparer Worth It?

As you’re preparing for tax season, you may want to consider hiring an income tax preparer if your situation is complex or there are tax benefits that you could qualify for. This might be the case if you are a business owner or self-employed; have diverse investments or rental properties; bought property during the tax year; or had a major life event, such as marriage, a birth or adoption, divorce, retirement, or inheritance.

If you have had issues with the IRS in the past or are under audit, you should also use a tax preparer. This is because a professional knows how to navigate the IRS’s rules to your advantage and help you understand the options open to you.

Whether you owe taxes or are getting a refund, using a money tracker app can help you manage your money.

The Takeaway

Not everyone can afford to hire a tax attorney or a CPA to help them with their tax returns. However, if you are a business owner, an independent contractor, or have experienced life events that make your tax situation complicated, hiring a credentialed tax preparer could help save you money in the long run.

Not all income tax preparers are the same, so if you choose to hire a tax preparer, make sure you choose a reputable one by checking with the Better Business Bureau for complaints and verifying their credentials. The IRS’ Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers can be a good place to start.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

What are the responsibilities of a tax preparer?

Tax preparers are responsible for completing and filing tax forms for their clients. They are also responsible for ensuring the forms are accurate and the information provided by their clients is truthful. This often requires interviewing clients and collecting supporting documentation. Tax preparers also provide tax strategy advice to clients to help them to pay less tax in the future.

Can you make good money as a tax preparer?

Tax preparers’ salaries vary depending on whether they are credentialed and where they live. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, tax preparers in general earn an average of $58,160 a year, and accounts make around $79,880 a year. Tax attorneys stand to make more: According to Glassdoor, their average annual salary is around $145,000.

What is the difference between a CPA and a tax preparer?

A CPA is typically better qualified than a tax preparer. A CPA not only has accounting credentials, but they are also certified as a tax specialist by their state board. A tax preparer who is not a CPA, EA, or tax attorney is uncredentialed and may only have worked part time on taxes during the tax season.

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