IRS Tax Return Tips: Wells Fargo Executive with 24 Years Experience Shares 2 Simple Ways to Get the Most Money From Your Refund (Exclusive)

Before people prepare to file their tax returns in 2026, there are several things they need to learn. One example of that is the fact that tax code changes now make it possible for some Americans to get tens of thousands more back from the IRS. Men's Journal spoke with an executive from a major bank who shared two practical tips to help boost your return.

In January 2026, Men's Journal asked Ben-James Brown, Vice President of Financial Opportunity for the Wells Fargo Foundation, about the tax filing advice he would offer for 2026. The expert, who has worked for the bank for more than 24 years, revealed ways to boost your financial gains from your tax refund.

Why Having a Bank Account and Filing for Direct Deposit Is So Important at Tax Time

While interviewing Ben-James Brown in January 2026, Men's Journal asked him about easy ways that readers can get the most out of tax season. Drawing on his financial expertise, Brown explained why taxpayers should open a bank account if they don't have one and get their return through direct deposit.

"One simple step to maximize returns this year and beyond is to file electronically and choose direct deposit. This very simple but important act helps people receive their refund faster, enabling them to avoid potential delays that can come with mailed checks. Getting your refund faster, safer, and with reduced fees, means being able to utilize your money to its greatest extent, whether that’s paying off debt, putting something away for savings or starting that business."

Brown later elaborated, "For tax season, unbanked filers who work with prepaid card programs or check cashers can lose a significant portion of their refund to access fees. Refunds are often their largest lump sum of the year. Without direct deposit, delays and fees can erode financial stability."

Brown also told Men's Journal why opening a bank account isn't just important during tax season. "Nearly 25 million U.S. households are unbanked and underbanked. Not having access to a safe, affordable bank account can result in added fees, longer delays and complicated access, especially during tax season. Reliance on check-cashing and payday loans can cost individuals up to $40,000 over a lifetime, draining resources that could fund savings or investments."

Wells Fargo's website has a page set up with information about its Banking Inclusion Initiative, which was launched in 2021 to help provide easier access to low-cost banking.

How People Who Qualify Can Save Money and Maximize Their Returns Through Free Advice

Many filers receive less money back from the IRS because they haven't studied the tax code, and they can't afford to hire someone who can give them advice. However, Ben-James Brown told Men's Journal about a program that qualifying people can use to get that incredibly valuable service without having to pay for it.

"I would encourage people to take advantage of VITA sites that provide free tax help for seniors, students, and low-income communities to ensure they receive eligible tax credits and deductions."

The IRS's website describes the government's VITA tax advice program, which Brown wants more people to take advantage of. "The VITA program has operated for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns." According to the IRS, those who would qualify include "people who generally make $67,000 or less," "persons with disabilities," and "limited English-speaking taxpayers." The same page also states that the TCE program provides free tax help to those who are 60 years old or older.

The Wells Fargo Foundation has also recently created a grant that "provides $200,000 to 15 organizations in 12 U.S. markets, enabling over 20,000 free tax returns and returning an estimated $25 million to households."