When do you get taxes back is one of the most common questions Americans ask during tax season. As 2025 approaches, millions of U.S. taxpayers are preparing to file their 2024 tax returns and wondering how long it will take to receive their refunds. The IRS has provided clear guidance on refund timelines, filing start dates, and what factors can affect when you get your money back.
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When the 2025 Tax Season Begins
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is expected to begin accepting 2024 federal tax returns in late January 2025, consistent with recent years. In 2024, the filing season officially began on January 29, and most refunds were issued within three weeks for electronically filed returns.
Taxpayers filing early in 2025 can expect a similar timeline. The official start date will be announced by the IRS in early January, but based on past schedules, it will likely fall between January 27 and January 31, 2025.
The tax filing deadline for most Americans in 2025 will be Tuesday, April 15, unless an extension is requested.
How Long It Takes to Get Your Tax Refund
The IRS issues more than 90% of refunds within 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit. Those who mail paper returns or request paper checks can expect a longer wait—typically six to eight weeks after the IRS receives the return.
Here’s a breakdown of average refund processing times:
| Filing Method | Refund Delivery Method | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| E-file with Direct Deposit | Electronic Transfer | 1–3 weeks |
| E-file with Paper Check | Mail Delivery | 3–5 weeks |
| Paper Return with Direct Deposit | Electronic Transfer | 4–6 weeks |
| Paper Return with Paper Check | Mail Delivery | 6–8 weeks |
The fastest way to get your refund is by e-filing early and opting for direct deposit into your bank account.
How to Check the Status of Your Refund
The IRS offers two official tools to track your refund:
- Where’s My Refund? – Available on the IRS website, this tool provides status updates 24 hours after e-filing or about four weeks after mailing a paper return.
- IRS2Go Mobile App – This app gives users the same real-time status updates directly on their phones.
You’ll need three pieces of information to check your status:
- Your Social Security number (or ITIN)
- Filing status (single, married, etc.)
- Exact refund amount
Refund status updates typically go through three stages:
- Return Received
- Refund Approved
- Refund Sent
Once your refund status changes to “Refund Sent,” direct deposit payments usually arrive within five business days.
Early Filers May Experience Delays
While the IRS encourages early filing, certain returns may take longer to process. In particular, taxpayers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may not receive refunds until late February 2025 due to federal fraud prevention measures.
These delays are mandated by the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, which requires the IRS to hold refunds that include these credits until at least mid-February to allow for additional verification.
If you claim these credits, the earliest you can expect your refund is likely between February 21 and February 28, 2025, if you file on opening day.
Average Refund Amount in 2025
Based on the most recent IRS data, the average 2024 tax refund (issued during the 2025 filing season) is projected to be between $2,850 and $3,000, depending on income, deductions, and credit eligibility.
For comparison, in 2024 the IRS reported an average refund of $2,850, reflecting an increase from the previous year due to inflation adjustments to tax brackets and standard deductions.
Refund amounts vary widely, however, depending on individual circumstances, such as:
- Withholding levels from paychecks
- Eligibility for tax credits (Child Tax Credit, EITC, etc.)
- Deductions for education, retirement contributions, or medical expenses
How to Speed Up Your Tax Refund
To get your taxes back as quickly as possible in 2025, follow these proven steps:
1. File Electronically
E-filing is the fastest, most secure way to submit your return. The IRS processes electronic returns much faster than paper ones.
2. Choose Direct Deposit
Opting for direct deposit ensures your refund goes straight into your bank account, cutting delivery time significantly.
3. Double-Check for Errors
Simple mistakes—like incorrect Social Security numbers or mismatched income figures—can delay processing. Use tax software or a verified preparer to minimize errors.
4. Submit Early
Filing as soon as the IRS opens tax season means your return enters the queue before the busiest period begins in February and March.
5. Use Reputable Tax Software
Programs like TurboTax, H&R Block, and IRS Free File automatically check for errors and ensure you claim all eligible credits.
What Can Delay a Refund
Even if you file correctly, certain issues can slow down the refund process. The most common delays include:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information on your tax return
- Missing forms, such as W-2s or 1099s
- Identity verification requests from the IRS
- Errors related to Social Security or dependent claims
- Paper filing instead of e-filing
- EITC or ACTC-related refund holds
Taxpayers who receive an IRS notice should respond promptly to prevent further delays.
How Refunds Are Issued
Most taxpayers receive their refunds via direct deposit to a checking or savings account. The IRS also allows deposits to prepaid debit cards or mobile banking apps that accept government payments.
If you prefer a paper check, it will be mailed to the address on your return. Keep in mind that mailing can add several weeks to the delivery time, especially during high-volume periods.
You can also split your refund into multiple accounts or use it to purchase U.S. Series I Savings Bonds, a feature that remains available through 2025.
Tax Refunds and Identity Security
The IRS continues to prioritize fraud prevention as identity theft remains a concern during tax season. In recent years, the agency has implemented enhanced verification systems to protect taxpayers.
Those selected for identity verification will receive an IRS Letter 5071C asking them to confirm their identity online or by phone before their refund is released.
To protect yourself:
- File early to reduce the chance of fraudulent filing under your name.
- Use strong passwords for e-filing software.
- Avoid sharing personal tax information via email or social media.
State Tax Refund Timelines
State refunds follow separate timelines from federal returns. Most state tax agencies process refunds within two to six weeks, depending on the filing method.
For example:
- California – Typically issues refunds within two weeks of e-filing.
- New York – Most refunds arrive within three weeks for e-filed returns.
- Texas and Florida – No state income tax; only federal refunds apply.
Taxpayers can check state refund status through their respective Department of Revenue websites.
Preparing for the 2025 Tax Season
Before filing, make sure you have all required documents:
- W-2 forms from employers
- 1099 forms for freelance or investment income
- Mortgage interest statements
- Records of charitable donations
- Receipts for deductible medical or education expenses
Gathering documents early ensures a smooth and accurate filing process once the IRS opens the system.
Have you already started preparing for the 2025 tax season? Share your questions or experiences about refund timing in the comments below.