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What this calculator does
Refund advances often charge a percentage of your refund. This calculator shows the true cost after accounting for the small time value of waiting for the IRS.
The math
Advance fee = refund × fee percentage. Time value = refund × HYSA APR ÷ 365 × 14 days. True cost = advance fee − time value.
Worked example
A $2,500 refund with a 10% advance fee costs $250. Waiting 14 days in a 4.5% savings account earns only about $4.31, so the true cost is about $245.69.
Why this matters
High-fee products are designed to look small per week and huge in total. This calculator exposes the full cost so you can compare it to real alternatives.
Methodology and transparency
This page publishes the exact formula used to compute the result, so you can verify it in a spreadsheet or check the assumptions against your own situation. The worked example uses the tool default inputs; change any number and the result updates live in your browser. No data is sent or stored.
Common questions
Why wait for the IRS?
Direct deposit is usually fast and free. Advances prey on impatience.
Are all tax prep fees bad?
Not all, but refund advances and high preparation fees can eat a large chunk of your refund.