SoFi

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.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

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.

SORL-Q125-002

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.

Photo credit: iStock/Pra-chid

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.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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-Q125-004

The average credit score for a 20-year-old is 681, according to 2024 data from Experian. This is considered a “good” score and signals to creditors that you can manage credit responsibly, increasing the likelihood you’ll get approved for a loan or a credit card. However, you may not get the best interest rates or most favorable terms — those are usually extended to people with higher credit scores.

Find out what a credit score is, how a 681 score compares to the average American’s, and steps you can take to bolster your score.

What Is a Credit Score?

A credit score is a three-digit number lenders use to help them determine how likely you are to repay a loan on time. It’s based on information from your credit reports, including your payment history, length of credit history, amounts owed, and credit mix. The higher your score, the more attractive you are to lenders — and the more likely you are to get approved for a loan or credit card.

Lenders typically report information to credit bureaus on a monthly basis, and in general, your credit score updates every 30 to 45 days. This means your score will likely fluctuate over time.

You may also have more than one credit score, depending on which credit scoring model a lender uses. The two primary models are FICO®, which is used in most lending decisions, and VantageScore. As you’ll see below, scores are categorized slightly differently in FICO vs. VantageScore.

FICO Score Ranges:

•   Poor: Less than 580

•   Fair: 580-699

•   Good: 670-739

•   Very good: 740-799

•   Exceptional: 800-850

VantageScore Score Ranges:

•   Subprime: 300-600

•   Near prime: 601-660

•   Prime: 661-780

•   Super prime: 781-850

Average Credit Score by Age 20

As we mentioned, the average credit score for a 20-year-old is 681, which is a good credit score, especially for someone that age. After all, most 20-year-olds are still relatively new to the credit scene, and it takes time to build up credit.

What Is the Average Credit Score?

The average 20-year-old has a lower credit score than the typical American — but not by that much. As of 2024, the national average FICO Score is 717, which falls within the “good” range. By comparison, the average American’s VantageScore is 702 as of 2024, which the credit scoring model classifies as “prime.”

Recommended: FICO Score vs. Credit Score

Average Credit Score by Age

While age doesn’t directly impact your credit score, it can play a role. Credit scores tend to rise with age, as older borrowers generally have more time to establish a strong payment history and demonstrate responsible credit usage. In the chart below, notice how average FICO Scores rise from one generation to the next.

At What Age Does Credit Score Improve the Most?

As the chart above shows, the biggest jump in credit scores is between those in Generation X (43-58) and the Baby Boomers (59-77). With the average Gen X credit score at 709, and Baby Boomers at 746, there’s a 37 point increase between the two age groups.

What’s a Good Credit Score for Your Age?

Regardless of your age, a “good” FICO Score is anywhere from 670 to 739. If you fall between those numbers — or exceed them — you’re on solid footing.

That said, many 20-year-olds are just starting to build their credit. As a result, their starting credit score most likely won’t be in the “good” range, but it also won’t be zero (no one’s credit score is) or at 300, the bottom score. Often, a starting credit score is in the good or fair credit score range (580-669).

Keep in mind that it can take up to six months before you even get your first credit score. Once you’ve established a track record of staying on top of your finances, you’ll likely see your score begin to increase. (Need help managing your money? A money tracker app can be a useful tool.)

Factors Influencing the Average Credit Score

Individuals who want a higher credit score can benefit from learning about the five key factors that affect your credit score. Some have more impact than others, but even the least-impactful factor can bring your credit score down.

What Factors Affect My Credit Score?

According to FICO, here are the factors that influence your credit score, in order of importance:

Payment History

This accounts for 35% of your credit score and carries the most weight. Prioritize making on-time payments, even if it’s just the minimum amount due. And practice smart budgeting, either with a spending app or a DIY method, so you can stay on top of monthly payments.

Credit Utilization

This refers to the amount of credit you’re using compared to what’s available to you, and it figures into 30% of your score. Lenders want to make sure you can handle your debts without being spread too thin or maxing out your available credit.

Length of Credit History

How long you’ve had credit makes up 15% of your score. The longer you’re able to show lenders that you’re responsible with credit, the higher your score will likely be.

Credit Mix

Having a diverse mix of credit contributes to 10% of your credit score and indicates to lenders that you can responsibly handle different kinds of debt.

New Credit

The amount of new credit accounts you open, and how quickly you do so, counts toward 10% of your score. Note that seeking out additional lines of credit means the lender will likely do a hard credit inquiry, and each hard credit check can temporarily lower your score by up to five points.

How Are Credit Scores Used?

Potential lenders use your credit score information as the basis for their decision whether to extend you credit. People with scores in the “good” or higher range generally have a better chance of being approved for a mortgage, loan, or credit card, than those who are in the “fair” or “poor” categories.

Your credit score may also be important in other areas of your life. For example, a landlord may run a tenant credit check before renting you an apartment or hoouse, and some employers may check your credit score during a background check.

How Does My Age Affect My Credit Score?

As we mentioned, credit scores tend to increase as people get older. This is most likely because they have a longer financial history and have adopted healthy financial habits along the way. But more impactful than age is the way someone manages their debt. For instance, a 50-year-old with a history of late payments will likely have a lower score than a 30-year-old with a spotless payment record.

How to Build Credit

When it comes to how to build credit, there are many strategies you can try. Here are some to consider:

•   Become an authorized user on someone else’s credit card. If you have a family member with a high credit score, you may want to ask if they can add you as an authorized user on their account. This allows you to use their credit card for purchases (without being liable for the payments) and begin establishing a credit record.

•   Look into getting your rent and utility payments reported to the credit bureaus. There are several services out there that will report your rent and utility payments to the credit bureaus.

•   Open a secured credit card. With this type of card, you put down a deposit that acts as your credit limit. Credit card issuers will report your payments to the credit agencies, allowing you to build your score by making on-time payments.

•   Get a store credit card. A credit card that can only be used at a particular retailer (think gas station or department store cards) can allow you to build credit, as long as the activity is reported to the major credit bureaus. Compared to traditional credit cards, store cards will have lower credit limits and may be easier to obtain.

How to Strengthen Your Credit Score

Whether or not you’re in the early phases of understanding how long it takes to build credit, there are steps you can take now to help bolster your credit score. Here are a few strategies to explore:

•   Pay your bills on time. As previously discussed, this is the most influential factor in your credit score. Setting up automatic payments from your bank account can help ensure you don’t miss a due date.

•   Keep credit utilization low. If you can’t pay your credit card balances off each month, strive to keep your total outstanding balance at 30% or less than your total credit limit. For example, if your credit card has a $1,000 limit, you’ll want to have a maximum balance of $300.

•   Ask for an increase in your credit limit. Doing so could raise your credit score as it can improve your credit utilization ratio. But be careful: Running up a balance on a card with a higher limit will defeat the purpose.

•   Avoid applying for too many credit cards or loans in a short period of time. With each application, a lender will likely perform a hard inquiry, which can lower your score temporarily. Multiple applications in a short time frame may also indicate to creditors that you’re a financial risk because you’re seeking a substantial amount of credit.

Credit Score Tips

Along with all of the aforementioned suggestions for building and strengthening your credit score, it’s important to monitor your score regularly by checking your credit report and disputing inaccuracies. You can get a free weekly copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus via AnnualCreditReport.com.

Additionally, you can also use a credit score monitoring service to track any changes to your credit report and credit score.

Recommended: Why Did My Credit Score Drop After a Dispute?

The Takeaway

What is the average credit score for a 20-year-old? According to FICO, it’s 681, which is considered “good.” Handling credit responsibly is important in order to maintain — and eventually increase — this credit score. Making on time payments, not applying for too much credit at once, maintaining a diverse credit mix, keeping credit utilization low, and building a strong credit history are all important financial habits that will help a 20-year-old build and strengthen their score.

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 20-year-old have a 700 credit score?

Technically, yes, it’s possible. But it’s more likely that someone this early on in their credit journey will have a score somewhere in the mid-to-higher 600 range.

What is a bad credit score for a 20 year-old?

FICO categorizes any score under 580 as “poor” credit. The score would make it challenging to get credit cards or be approved for loans. If you are approved, you can expect higher interest rates and more restrictive terms.

Is 760 a good credit score for a 20 year-old?

A credit score of 760 is in the “very good” range and is only 40 points away from the top category of “exceptional,” per FICO. Achieving this high of a score usually requires a long history of responsible credit usage, which most 20-year-olds haven’t achieved yet.

How rare is an 825 credit score?

Having an 825 credit score is fairly unusual, since it’s in the top tier and only 25 points away from the highest score you can obtain. Arriving at and maintaining this credit score signals you have near-flawless credit.

Is a 900 credit score possible?

No. The highest possible credit score you can get is 850.

Can I buy a house with a 735 credit score?

Yes, you can buy a house with a 735 credit score. In fact, a 735 credit score exceeds the usual qualifications for all types of mortgage loans.

Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade

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.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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-Q424-024