Tax season is here, and millions of Americans are eagerly waiting for their tax refunds. Whether you’re hoping to pay down debt or simply want some extra cash, it’s important to know when you can expect that refund. With some changes in IRS operations, especially around the upcoming layoffs, it’s important to stay informed about the latest updates.
How to Check Your IRS Refund Status
If you’ve filed your tax return and are wondering “Where’s my refund?” the IRS offers a helpful tool called “Where’s My Refund?” available on the IRS.gov website. This tool provides real-time updates about your refund status and helps you track its progress.
Here’s how you can check your refund status:
- Visit IRS.gov: Go to the official website.
- Enter Your Information: You’ll need to provide:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your filing status (single, married, etc.).
- The exact refund amount you’re expecting.
- Refund Status: After entering your information, you will receive one of the following responses:
- Return Received – The IRS has received your tax return, and they’re in the process of reviewing it.
- Refund Approved – Your refund has been approved and will be issued soon.
- Refund Sent – Your refund has been sent, either via direct deposit to your bank or through a check in the mail.
When Will My Refund Arrive?
The timeline for receiving your refund depends on how you filed your return. For most filers:
- E-filed returns: If you filed your tax return electronically, you can expect a much quicker turnaround time, with most refunds processed in less than three weeks.
- Paper returns: If you submitted a paper return, the process may take longer, with some refunds taking up to six weeks or more to be processed.
The IRS advises taxpayers not to depend on receiving a refund by a specific date, particularly when making significant purchases or paying bills. Some returns may require further review, which could extend the time it takes for your refund to be processed.
When is the last day to file taxes?
Federal income tax returns for 2024 must be filed by April 15, 2025. Americans residing overseas have an extended deadline of June 16, 2025, to file.
Will IRS Layoffs Impact Tax Return Processing Times?
As the IRS works to manage a large volume of tax returns, there’s concern that upcoming IRS layoffs might impact the speed at which refunds are processed. According to reports, the IRS may lay off up to 15,000 employees, many of whom work in roles related to customer service and tax return processing.
Although it’s not clear how much these layoffs will delay the processing of tax refunds, it’s possible that there could be longer wait times for some taxpayers, especially those who require additional review or those who file paper returns.
Also Read: Are Investment Fees Tax Deductible?
How Long Will It Take for My Refund to Be Deposited?
If you’ve already received notification that your refund has been sent, here’s what you can expect:
- Direct Deposit: If you requested a direct deposit, your refund should appear in your account within about 5 days after the refund is sent. Be sure to check with your bank or financial institution, as it may take a day or two for it to reflect in your account.
- Paper Check: If you opted for a paper check, your refund could take several weeks to arrive in the mail. Delays can occur due to postal service issues, so patience is required.
Common Reasons for Refund Delays
There are a variety of reasons your tax return might face delays. Some common causes include:
- Errors or Incomplete Returns: If your tax return contains errors or is missing information, the IRS may take additional time to process it.
- Identity Theft or Fraud: If your return is flagged for potential identity theft or fraud, the IRS may require further investigation, which can delay your refund.
- Tax Credits: If your return includes claims for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), it may require additional processing time.
IRS Refund Schedule 2025: When Should You Expect It?
If you are wondering when you can expect your refund, it is important to keep an eye on key dates. The IRS expects to process nearly 140 million returns during the 2025 filing season, with most refunds issued in less than three weeks. However, if you are using paper forms, or if your return requires further review, processing times could extend longer.
For anyone who is waiting on a refund, IRS refund tracker tools like “Where’s My Refund?” and IRS refund schedule 2025 updates will help you stay on top of when your money will arrive.
