ATLANTA -- More than half of all tax returns were filed electronically last year, and this year, the IRS is again encouraging you to file that way if you want your refund right away. Consumer Advisor Clark Howard explains it’s a good way to get cash quickly without spending a fortune.

The signs of tax season: The IRS is already busy handing out forms, answering questions and promoting electronic filing – it is the fastest way to get a refund.

“Generally you can have your refund directly deposited into your checking account in as little as 7 to 10 business days,” explained Mark Green with the IRS.

Everyone wants their cash back quickly – that’s why so-called “Refund Anticipation Loans” are so popular. But Clark thinks they stink and so does the IRS.

“Very costly and expensive -- we do not endorse Refund Anticipation Loans,” said Green.

Green says some preparers charge 25 percent of your refund for that advance – and you’ve still got to file after you receive a W-2. Whenever you pay someone to file your tax return – do your homework.

“Make sure you choose someone who is knowledgeable, credible and tells you exactly up front what your fees will be,” advised Green.

That means avoid a preparer who charges you a percentage of your refund. Even better than paying a rip-off fee for your money, how about being able to file your return for nothing? About 70 percent of us can do that under IRS program.

If you make less than $52,000 a year after some deductions you can file for nothing in just minutes.

H and R Block’s spokeswoman says their Refund Anticipation Loans are “half” the cost of other programs and she says they will fully disclose all fees.