The IRS started accepting 2025 tax returns on January 27, 2025. The deadline to file is April 15, 2025. If you need more time, you can file for an extension. But remember—if you owe taxes, you must pay by April 15 to avoid penalties.
Tax season is here. If you’re expecting a refund, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are eager to get their money back. But when will it arrive? How can you track it? Let’s break it down simply.
When Will You Get Your Tax Refund?
Most refunds arrive within 10-21 days if you file electronically and choose direct deposit. Paper returns take longer—sometimes over a month. If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC), your refund may be delayed until March.
Estimated Tax Refund Schedule 2025
| IRS Accepts Return By | Direct Deposit Refund Date (Approx.) |
| Jan. 27 | Feb. 7 – Feb. 14 |
| Feb. 3 | Feb. 14 – Feb. 21 |
| Feb. 10 | Feb. 21 – Feb. 28 |
| Feb. 17 | Feb. 28 – Mar. 7 |
| Feb. 24 | Mar. 7 – Mar. 14 |
| Mar. 3 | Mar. 14 – Mar. 21 |
| Mar. 10 | Mar. 21 – Mar. 28 |
| Mar. 17 | Mar. 28 – Apr. 4 |
| Apr. 7 | Apr. 18 – Apr. 25 |
| Apr. 14 | Apr. 25 – May 2 |
Note: Paper checks arrive about a week later. EITC and CTC filers may face extra delays.
How to Track Your Tax Refund
Wondering, where’s my refund? The IRS makes it easy to check your refund status.
- Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund” Tool
- Visit irs.gov/refunds.
- Enter your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount.
- You’ll see updates within 24 hours if you e-filed, or four weeks after mailing a paper return.
- Download the IRS2Go App
- Available for Apple and Android.
- Check your refund status on the go.
- Call the IRS
- If it’s been over 21 days since you e-filed, or six weeks for a paper return, call 1-800-829-1954.
Why Is Your Refund Delayed?
If your refund isn’t arriving as expected, here’s why:
- Filed Too Early or Late: Returns before January 27 take longer. Late filers (March-April) face a backlog.
- EITC or CTC Hold: The IRS holds refunds with these credits until early March for fraud prevention.
- Errors or Missing Information: A small mistake can delay your refund. Double-check your numbers.
- Paper Return: Mailed returns take weeks longer than e-filed ones.
Best Ways to Get Your Refund Fast
Want your money sooner? Follow these tips:
E-file Your Tax Return – Paper returns take much longer to process.
Choose Direct Deposit – It’s the fastest refund method.
File Early – The sooner you file, the quicker you get your refund.
Avoid Mistakes – Errors slow down your refund. Double-check everything.
What If You Can’t File by April 15?
You can request an extension using IRS Form 4868. This gives you until October 15, 2025, to file. But if you owe taxes, you must still pay by April 15 to avoid interest and penalties.
State Tax Refunds – Where’s My State Refund?
Federal refunds aren’t the only thing to track. Many states also offer online tools to check your state tax refund status. Visit your state’s tax department website for details.
Get Your Tax Refund Without Stress
Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. File early, e-file, use direct deposit, and track your refund with the IRS tools. If your refund is delayed, check for errors and confirm you aren’t affected by IRS holds.
Still wondering, where’s my refund? Keep checking with the IRS refund tracker or IRS2Go app. And if you’re worried, consider hiring a tax professional to help you file correctly and maximize your refund.
