What should taxpayers be informed about regarding tax refund products?

Taxpayers should be informed that they are not required to apply for tax refund products, and that these products do not guarantee a faster refund. This understanding is crucial, as it helps taxpayers make informed choices regarding their tax situations without feeling pressured into selecting these products due to misconceptions about their necessity or benefits.

Refund products often come with conditions or fees, and taxpayers need to be aware that opting for them is purely voluntary. Furthermore, many taxpayers may believe that these products can expedite their refunds, but the reality is that the IRS generally processes refunds independently of whether a taxpayer chooses to use a refund product. This clarification ensures that taxpayers maintain realistic expectations about the timing and associated costs of their tax refunds, enabling them to weigh their options wisely.