What is the difference between e-file or file by mail? Will this have anything to do with the time frame of getting the returns back?

[RashaseiaLO · Accepted solution]

E-file means Electronic Filing.  Meaning that your return will be sent to the IRS and applicable State electronically instead of you having to mail it.  The process is faster and will save time for your return to be received by the tax agency. If you File by Mail, you will print your return, sign and mail it in order to file it.

Last year, 9 out of 10 e-filers received their IRS tax refund in less than 21 days, which is the normal, though it can take longer.

If you mail your federal return and are expecting a refund you can start checking the status of your return on the IRS website Where's My Refund 4 weeks after mailing your return. It takes that amount of time for it to show up in their system, sometimes a bit longer if they are backed up. 

Click on the link below from (TurboTax FAQ) for more information.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894389-when-will-i-get-my-irs-tax-refund