3 Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Advance Loan to Get Ahead Financially in 2026

For many families in South Carolina and Georgia, the start of the year means one thing: it’s time to file taxes and (hopefully) look forward to a refund.

But what if you could access part of your refund before the IRS processes it and use that money to take meaningful steps toward your financial goals?

At Sunset Finance and Flight Finance, we offer Tax Advance Loans, a short-term loan based on your expected tax refund. If approved, you can receive funds in as little as 24 to 48 hours after filing, giving you early access to money that’s already yours.

If you qualify, here are three strategic, real-life ways you can use your Tax Advance Loan to reduce stress and build a stronger financial future in 2026.

1. Catch Up on Bills and Avoid Late Fees

If you’re starting the year with unpaid rent, utility bills, car payments, or unexpected expenses, a Tax Advance Loan can help you catch up without relying on credit cards or payday loans.

Why this works:

• Late fees, overdraft charges, and interest can add up quickly
  
  
• Falling behind can damage your credit or lead to service interruptions
  
  
• A short-term loan can give you the breathing room to stabilize your finances
  
  

Example:
A customer in Greer, SC used their Tax Advance Loan in early January to pay a missed car payment and avoid repossession. By the time their full refund arrived, they were back on track and avoided high late fees.

Smart next step:
Once you're caught up, set up calendar reminders or automatic payments for the rest of the year to stay on top of future bills.

2. Pay Down Credit Card Debt from the Holidays

If your credit cards are still carrying a balance from holiday shopping, now is the time to tackle it. Using part of your Tax Advance Loan to pay down or eliminate credit card debt is one of the best ways to reduce financial stress and free up income.

Why this works:

• The average credit card interest rate is over 20%
  
  
• Paying off just one card can improve your credit score and lower your monthly obligations
  
  
• You’ll reduce long-term interest and feel more in control
  
  

Example:
A Flight Finance customer in Gainesville, GA used a $1,000 advance to pay off a store credit card and reduce a second card’s balance. That lowered their monthly minimums by nearly $100, money they could now use to save or invest.

3. Start or Rebuild an Emergency Fund

It only takes one unexpected expense, like a flat tire, appliance repair, or urgent trip to the doctor, to knock your budget off course. That’s why having even a small emergency fund can make a big difference.

Why this matters:

• 60% of Americans don’t have $500 saved for emergencies
  
  
• Emergency funds reduce reliance on credit cards
  
  
• Saving early in the year builds momentum for long-term financial health
  
  

How to do it:
Set aside $200 to $500 from your refund advance in a separate savings account. Label it “emergency only” and leave it untouched unless absolutely needed.

Pro tip:
If you use your Tax Advance Loan to create your safety net now, you’ll thank yourself the next time a surprise expense shows up.

Bonus Tip: Combine These Strategies for Maximum Impact

You don’t have to choose just one. With careful planning, your Tax Advance Loan can help you:

• Pay one or two critical bills now
  
  
• Put a dent in a credit card balance
  
  
• Save a small amount to avoid future setbacks
  

It’s not about the amount, it’s about using the money in a way that supports your goals and reduces your financial anxiety.

How to Apply for a Tax Advance Loan

You can file your taxes and apply for your refund advance in person or remotely with Sunset Finance and Flight Finance.

Two easy ways to get started:

1. File in person at one of our local tax offices across South Carolina and Georgia
   
   
2. File from your phone using the secure Taxes To Go mobile app

Our local team will help you prepare your return and determine if you qualify for a Tax Advance Loan. If approved, you’ll get your funds within 24 to 48 hours after being accepted by the IRS, long before the IRS releases your refund.

It’s Your Money, Use It to Build Your Future

A Tax Advance Loan is more than just fast cash, it’s a financial tool that can help you stabilize, plan, and move forward with confidence.

Whether you're paying down debt, avoiding late payments, or finally starting that emergency fund, using your refund advance wisely can set the tone for the entire year.

At Sunset Finance and Flight Finance, we’re here to help you make smart choices with local support you can trust.

How to Get Started

You can apply in just a few steps:

1. Download the Taxes To Go App on your smartphone or tablet
   
   
2. Take pictures of your W-2, ID, and Social Security card
   
   
3. Upload your documents and connect with your local tax preparer
   
   
4. File your taxes and request a Tax Advance Loan
   
   
5. Receive your money, often within 24 to 48 hours
   
   

The earlier you file, the faster you can get your advance.

Frequently Asked Questions For Filing Taxes

*subject to our most liberal credit policies and IRS acceptance of your return.