One calculator and 2 readiness checks
These tools help you organize and think through your situation — none of them file a return or promise an exact dollar figure.
Document organiser
Check off what you have before you build an estimate or start filing — missing documents are the biggest source of a wrong estimate.
Assumptions this uses
- This checklist reflects commonly needed documents for a typical US federal return
- It does not know which documents apply specifically to your situation
- Self-employed and multi-state filers will likely need additional documents beyond this list
Limitations: This does not confirm you have everything the IRS requires for your specific return, and it does not check any figures for accuracy.
Runs entirely in your browser.
A refund estimate is only as good as what you put into it
Have your most recent pay stub or last year's return nearby before you run the numbers — the withholding figure on it matters more than your salary. If you had side income, gather a rough total even if you have not added it all up yet. An estimate built on real figures is worth far more than one built on guesses.
Which filing situation applies to you?
Answer three quick questions to see which filing complexity category your return likely falls into before you estimate.
Assumptions this uses
- This quiz sorts by common complexity signals — income sources, life changes, and past filing method
- It does not calculate a refund figure and does not access any of your actual account data
- Recommendations are general starting points, not a determination of what you legally must do
Limitations: This does not replace an actual review of your documents, and unusual combinations of income or life events may not fit neatly into one category.
Runs entirely in your browser.
The Pre-Filing Refund Estimate Checklist
A worksheet to build a real estimate range and pick the right filing method before you start.
Get the free guide →Refund savings planner
If you expect a refund, see how it could grow a savings goal instead of disappearing into everyday spending.
Assumptions this uses
- Assumes steady monthly contributions with no withdrawals
- Assumed annual return is a placeholder you can adjust, not a guaranteed rate
- Does not account for taxes on any investment growth
Limitations: This does not know your actual refund amount and does not account for irregular income, market volatility, or changes in your savings rate over time.
Runs entirely in your browser.
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Once you know your filing complexity, file where it fits
If your estimate points to a straightforward W-2 return, paid software like TurboTax can walk you through it step by step at a fraction of a CPA's cost.
See filing software options →