Jackson Hewitt Tax Service has opened early in 3,000 Walmart stores nationwide.

Clients can get started on their taxes with their latest paystub and other income verification documents, the tax prep giant said, and can see if they qualify to receive an Express Refund Advance of up to $1,300, a no-fee, zero-percent APR loan.

The amount of the advance will be deducted from refunds and reduce the amount that is paid directly to the taxpayer. Returns may be e-filed without applying for this loan.

Approved clients may receive $200 on a Walmart eGift card the same day they complete their return with Jackson Hewitt. These clients will then receive any remaining loan balance when they provide their W2 and file their return. Loans are repaid when clients receive their refunds.

Hewitt pointed out that claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or ACTC may not receive their refunds until late February, and that the PATH Act gives the IRS more time to review returns with those credits.

Hewitt has a decade-long partnership with Walmart, said David Prokupek, CEO of Jackson Hewitt.

Jeff Stimpson is a veteran freelance journalist who previously served as editor of The Practical Accountant.