When Will I Get My Tax Refund?

The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025).

It’s hard to wait patiently when you know you have a tax refund coming your way. Chances are you want to know the exact minute it will get to you. During the filing season, which typically starts in January and ends in April, taxpayers eagerly await their refunds. While there are no guarantees, we have an estimated IRS tax refund schedule that can help see when it will arrive.

Understanding Tax Refunds

What is a Tax Refund?

A tax refund is the amount of money returned to a taxpayer when they have overpaid their taxes throughout the year. This overpayment can happen if an employer withholds too much money from an employee’s paycheck or if a taxpayer makes estimated tax payments that exceed their actual tax liability. Once a taxpayer files their tax return and the government processes it, any excess amount paid is refunded. Essentially, a tax refund is the government giving back the money that was overpaid.

Who Qualifies for a Tax Refund?

Taxpayers who have overpaid their taxes through income tax withholding or estimated tax payments may be eligible for a refund. Additionally, those who claim refundable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit, may also qualify for a refund. To receive a refund, taxpayers must file a tax return and claim any refundable credits they are eligible for. This means that even if you don’t owe any taxes, you could still get money back if you qualify for these credits.

Estimated IRS Tax Refund Schedule

According to the IRS, most refunds, especially those opting for a direct deposit refund, are issued in less than 21 days, which is great news for your bank account. Refunds that are direct deposited into your bank account typically arrive faster than those sent by check. However, there’s always a slim chance that your refund may be delayed if your return requires additional review. So, hold off on spending the cash before it’s in your hands.

Although the IRS doesn’t guarantee when your refund will arrive, here is the IRS tax refund schedule for the 2024 tax year (taxes filed 2025):

*Refunds for returns claiming the EITC or CTC may be delayed until March to verify credits.

The IRS provides a tax refund schedule that outlines the expected timelines for receiving refunds based on different filing methods. If you don’t file your taxes until April, expect a longer wait time for your refund to arrive as April is peak season. That’s why you’re better off filing as early as possible so you can get your refund faster.

Tax Refund Process

How Refunds Are Processed

The tax refund process begins once a taxpayer files their tax return. The government reviews the return to ensure it is accurate and complete. After this review, the return is processed to determine the refund amount. If the taxpayer opted for direct deposit, the refund will be directly deposited into their bank account. If a paper check was chosen, it will be mailed to the address listed on the tax return. Taxpayers can track their refund status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website or by calling the IRS’s automated refund hotline. This tool provides updates on the status of the refund, helping taxpayers know when to expect their money.

Best Way to Check Your Refund Status

Once you’ve e-filed and your return has been accepted (typically 1-3 days after you file), you can begin tracking your refund using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. The results are updated overnight so don’t waste your time visiting the site more than once a day. To check your refund status, all you need is your SSN or ITIN, filing status and refund amount.

Keep in mind that the timelines provided by your tax preparer or third-party tax software are estimates and not guarantees.

You’ll then be able to see the status of your refund:

• Return Received – The IRS has received your return and are processing it.
• Refund Approved – The IRS has approved your refund and are preparing to issue it by the date shown.
• Refund Sent – The IRS sent the refund to your bank or to you in the mail.

When Will I Get My Refund?

If your refund status is “Sent”, you can expect to see the money in your bank account within 5 business days, or a few weeks if it was sent by mail. The time it takes for the refund to be posted in your bank account can also depend on your financial institution.

If you filed a paper return, expect a longer wait time for your refund to arrive.

Fastest Way to Get Your Tax Refund

An income tax refund can be processed faster if you file electronically and choose direct deposit. The IRS may issue a refund through direct deposit as soon as 10 days after you e-file. Expect an additional week’s wait if you choose to receive your refund by mail.

With ezTaxReturn, most people can prepare their federal return in as little as 30 minutes. Ensure you have all necessary tax documents, such as W2s and 1099s, ready before filing to avoid delays. Double-check your tax forms for accuracy to prevent any issues that could delay your refund. Providing inaccurate bank information will definitely slow down your refund, so always double check your entries. To make certain your refund gets directly to you, as fast as possible, copy your routing and account numbers exactly as they appear on your personal checks.

Frequently Asked Questions about the IRS Refund Schedule

1. What is the IRS refund schedule?

The IRS refund schedule provides estimated dates for when taxpayers can expect to receive their tax refunds. It varies depending on the filing method, such as e-file with direct deposit or paper return with mailed check.

2. How can I find out my refund status?

You can check your refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. You’ll need your Social Security Number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount.

3. Why might my refund be delayed?

Refunds can be delayed for several reasons, including errors on your tax return, incomplete information, identity theft concerns, or if your return requires additional review by the IRS.

4. Can I get my refund faster?

Yes, filing your taxes electronically and opting for direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your refund. This method can significantly reduce the waiting time compared to filing a paper return and receiving a check by mail.

5. What should I do if I haven’t received my refund by the estimated date?

If your refund hasn’t arrived by the estimated date, first check your refund status on the IRS website. If it shows as “Refund Sent” but you haven’t received it, contact your bank or financial institution. If there’s still an issue, you may need to contact the IRS directly for further assistance.

6. Are there any specific dates when refunds are issued?

The IRS issues refunds on a continuous basis throughout the tax season. However, there are no specific dates guaranteed for all taxpayers, as refunds are processed on a case-by-case basis.

7. Does claiming certain credits affect the timing of my refund?

Yes, claiming certain credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can delay your refund. The IRS typically holds these refunds until mid-February to verify eligibility for these credits.

If you haven’t filed yet, don’t wait! File your taxes easily with ezTaxReturn and get your refund faster. Start now!

The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.