With the 2025 tax season officially underway, many taxpayers are asking, “Where’s my refund?” Knowing how to check your tax refund status can help ease worries and ensure you’re up to date with your return.
Important Dates and Filing Details
The IRS began accepting and processing 2024 tax returns on January 27, 2025. Taxpayers have until April 15, 2025, to file their federal income tax returns.
How to Get Your Refund Faster
- File electronically to speed up processing.
- Choose direct deposit for a quicker refund.
- The IRS issues most refunds within 21 calendar days after processing.
How to Track Your Tax Refund
The IRS offers the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, available on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go mobile app. This tool updates taxpayers on the status of their refund in three stages:
- Return Received – Your tax return has been received and is being processed.
- Refund Approved – Your refund status has been approved and is ready for release.
- Refund Sent – Your refund has been sent via direct deposit or mailed as a check.
What You Need to Check Your Refund Status
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Filing status (Single, Married, etc.)
- Exact refund amount from your return
💡 The IRS updates refund information once daily, typically overnight, so checking multiple times a day is unnecessary.
Things That Can Delay Your Tax Refund
While most refunds arrive within 21 days, certain factors can delay your refund:
1. Errors or Incomplete Information
Mistakes or missing details on your tax return can slow down processing.
2. Paper Filing
Mailed paper returns take significantly longer to process than e-filed returns.
3. Further Review by the IRS
If your return requires additional review, it may take longer to process.
4. Claiming Certain Tax Credits
Returns that include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may take extra time due to additional verification processes.
Recent IRS Enhancements
To improve the taxpayer experience, the IRS has implemented several new updates:
✅ Redesigned Notices
- More than 200 IRS notices have been updated for clarity.
- Notices are now available through individual online accounts.
📱 Mobile-Adaptive Tax Forms
- 67 tax forms can now be filled out on mobile devices.
- Users can save and draft forms before submission.
🗣 Virtual Assistants
- IRS voicebots can now assist with refund status and other inquiries in English and Spanish.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I track my refund status after I file?
- E-filers can check their refund status within 24 hours after submission.
- Paper filers may have to wait four weeks before checking.
What should I do if my refund is delayed?
- If your refund takes longer than 21 days, check the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
- If needed, contact the IRS for assistance.
Can I track my refund if I filed by mail?
- Yes, but paper returns take significantly longer to process.
- You will need to wait at least four weeks before checking your refund status.
Stay Updated
For the latest updates on tax refunds, visit the official IRS website.
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