2025 Tax Refund Schedule: When Will You Get Your Money?
Tax season is here, and if you're expecting a refund, you probably want to know when you'll get it. The IRS processes refunds at different speeds depending on how you file and how you choose to receive your money. This guide breaks down the expected refund schedule, what can delay your refund, and how to get your money as fast as possible.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax Refund?
The IRS started accepting 2024 tax returns on January 27, 2025. How quickly you receive your refund depends on your filing method and whether you choose direct deposit or a paper check. Here’s what to expect:
E-filed returns with direct deposit: Most refunds arrive within 21 days.
E-filed returns with a mailed check: Expect to wait about 4 weeks.
Paper-filed returns with direct deposit: Processing can take 4 to 8 weeks.
Paper-filed returns with a mailed check: It may take 4 to 9 weeks.
💡 Tip: The fastest way to get your refund is to e-file and select direct deposit.
2025 IRS Refund Calendar: Estimated Dates
If your return is filed and accepted on one of these dates, here’s when you might receive your refund:
| Date Return is Filed and Accepted | Direct Deposit Refund Date | Mailed Check Refund Date |
|---|---|---|
| January 27 | February 17* | March 28 |
| February 3 | February 24 | April 4 |
| February 10 | March 3 | April 11 |
| February 17* | March 10 | April 18 |
| February 24 | March 17 | April 25 |
| March 3 | March 24 | May 2 |
| March 10 | March 31 | May 9 |
| March 17 | April 7 | May 16 |
| March 24 | April 14 | May 23 |
| March 31 | April 21 | May 30 |
| April 7 | April 28 | June 6 |
| April 15 | May 6 | June 16 |
🚨 Important: February 17 is a federal holiday (Presidents' Day), which may delay some refunds.
What Can Delay Your Refund?
Some refunds take longer to process. Here’s why:
Claiming Certain Credits: If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), your refund could be delayed due to extra verification steps.
Filing with Errors: Mistakes like a wrong Social Security number, incorrect bank details, or mismatched income can slow things down.
Mailing a Paper Return: The IRS strongly recommends e-filing for faster refunds.
Peak Filing Season: If you file in March or April, the IRS may take longer due to high demand.
How to Get Your Refund Faster
Want your refund ASAP? Follow these steps:
✅ E-file your return. Paper returns take longer to process.
✅ Choose direct deposit. It's faster than waiting for a check.
✅ Double-check your return. Make sure everything is correct before you file.
✅ File early. The earlier you file, the sooner you'll get your refund.
How to Track Your Refund
The IRS has tools to help you check your refund status:
🔍 "Where’s My Refund?" Tool – Visit the Tax Center on our website.
📱 IRS2Go Mobile App – Track your refund on your phone.
📞 IRS Refund Hotline – Call 800-829-1954 for automated updates.
To check your status, you'll need:
✔ Your Social Security number or ITIN
✔ Your filing status (Single, Married, etc.)
✔ Your exact refund amount
What About State Tax Refunds?
State refunds follow different timelines. Some states process refunds in a few weeks, while others take months. Check your state’s Department of Revenue website for details. (Also found on the Tax Center on our website).
Understanding the IRS refund schedule helps you plan your finances better. The fastest way to get your money is to e-file, choose direct deposit, and make sure your tax return is accurate.
Want to learn more about tax terms and filing your return correctly? Grab my ebook, "Understanding Your Taxes: Key Terms Explained," to break down confusing tax lingo in simple terms.
📌 Click here to get the ebook now!
Disclaimer: Refund dates are estimates and can change based on IRS processing times.
About the Author:
I’m Coach Ktasha (Tasha), a tax and business consultant dedicated to helping individuals and entrepreneurs navigate taxes, maximize deductions, and build strong financial foundations. My goal is to make tax season stress-free and provide you with the knowledge to make smart money moves all year long.
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