Want a faster refund? The IRS says that more taxpayers are choosing direct deposit as the way to get their federal tax refunds. The payment is more secure — there is no check to get lost. And, it’s more convenient — no special trip to the bank to deposit a check! Be sure to ask your tax preparer to request direct deposit, or follow the instructions for "Refund" on your tax return.

Nearly 40 million people had their tax refunds deposited directly into their bank accounts during the 2002 filing season, a 17 percent increase from the year before. Choosing direct deposit is the best way to guard against having a tax refund misplaced or stolen.

Want an even faster refund? Try e-file! Taxpayers who file electronically get their refunds in about half the time as those who file paper returns.

A word of caution — some financial institutions do not allow a joint refund to be deposited into an individual account. Check with your bank or other financial institution to make sure your direct deposit will be accepted. Also, make sure you have the correct nine-digit routing number and your account number when selecting direct deposit.

For more information about direct deposit of your tax refund, check the instructions for your tax form. This and other helpful tips are available in IRS Publication 17, "Your Federal Income Tax."

Note: These tips are provided to help trigger ideas on ways to minimize your tax burden, not as a substitute for professional advice. There is no "one-size-fits-all" answer - each taxpayer's situation is different. You should contact your tax preparer to determine together how this may affect your unique situation.