Does anyone know when the refund anticipation loans start?

You can get a refund anticipation loan as long as returns are being accepted electronically by the IRS; from a tax preparer until Oct 15th or you might be able to get one from one of the companies that participate in the free file alliance on IRS.gov. This assumes that you haven’t filed your 2006 return yet.

The 2007 electronic filing season usually starts the first week of Jan 2008 for next year.

Be very careful about RAL’s because they are expensive, for most people who receive them, the cost more than the person can make in wages for the day.

You can get your refund in as little as 10-17 days if you just file electronically and have the money direct deposited in your bank account, or 3 weeks if IRS mails you a check.