Unlock Your 2025 Tax Refund: Key Dates & How to Track Your Money!
Updated: December 23, 2024.
As we approach the close of another year, one thing is certain: tax season is just around the corner! While many Americans might cringe at the very thought of taxes and the IRS, there’s a silver lining that shines bright—tax refunds! Yes, millions are eagerly anticipating that sweet refund check, dreaming of how they’ll spend it. A long-overdue getaway? Paying off that nagging debt? The possibilities are endless!
[Skip to the estimated refund date chart below or scroll down for more details.]
Mark your calendars! The IRS typically kicks off the e-filing process in the last week of January, with the filing deadline set for April 15 (though it may shift if it falls on a weekend or holiday).
If you’re wondering how long it might take to see that refund after hitting “submit,” you’re definitely not alone! For nearly 15 years, the most common question we’ve tackled is: “When will I get my tax refund?” While we can’t pinpoint an exact date just yet, we can offer a solid estimate based on various factors, along with the insights from our expert team.
Quick Insight: Depending on when you file, you can expect to receive your federal tax refund—whether via check or direct deposit—within 10 to 21 days. If the IRS sticks to starting e-filing on schedule, savvy early filers could see their refunds as soon as mid to late February if they opt for direct deposit—no need for those costly “tax refund loans”!
However: With a new presidential administration stepping into office by the end of January, there’s always the chance of last-minute tax law changes. These could throw a wrench into the tax season start date, as software and forms would need updating. But don’t worry, given how late in January this would occur, it’s unlikely to affect this year’s filing timeline.
If your financial situation changed significantly this year—think new job, moving, marriage, divorce, retirement, or a new investment—you’d be wise to consult a tax professional like a CPA or EA. They can help ensure you’re compliant with tax laws and uncover hidden deductions or credits that might benefit you.
On a positive note, the IRS is ramping up its tech game, which should help speed up refund processing this year compared to previous years, when backlogs and pandemic-related delays were the norm.
Now, here’s the chart you’ve been waiting for! If the IRS announces any changes to the tax law or filing dates, we’ll keep this chart updated. Remember: These are just estimates for when you can expect your refund!
Don’t take these dates as gospel, as every taxpayer’s situation is unique, from documents to income. Keep in mind that the first column refers to when the IRS “accepts” your return—this can be 2-3 days post e-filing. For paper returns, expect a much longer wait of up to 3-4 weeks as they’re manually entered into IRS systems.
Estimated 2025 IRS Income Tax Return Chart
| If the IRS Accepts an E-Filed Return By: | Then Direct Deposit refund could arrive as early as 10 days after e-file accepted. (For e-filed, expect a paper check about a week later): |
|---|---|
| * IRS may start accepting returns on Jan. 27, 2025. | |
| *Jan. 27, 2025 | Feb. 7 (Feb. 14)** |
| Feb. 3 | Feb. 14 (Feb. 21)** |
| Feb. 10 | Feb. 21 (Feb. 28)** |
| Feb. 17 | Feb. 28 (Mar. 7)** |
| Feb. 24 | Mar. 7 (Mar. 14) |
| Mar. 3 | Mar. 14 (Mar. 21) |
| Mar. 10 | Mar. 21 (Mar. 28) |
| Mar. 17 | Mar. 28 (Apr. 4) |
| Mar. 24*** | Apr. 4 (Apr. 11)*** |
| Mar. 31*** | Apr. 11 (Apr. 18)*** |
| Apr. 7 *** | Apr. 18 (Apr. 25)*** |
| Apr. 14*** | Apr. 25 (May 2)*** |
* = Estimated date the IRS may start accepting e-filed tax returns.
** = Returns with EITC or CTC may experience refunds delayed until March for verification.
*** = Filing during peak season (late March through April 15) may lead to slightly longer wait times.
| IRS Accepts Return By: | Direct Deposit Sent (Or Paper Check Mailed one week later) |
|---|---|
| Apr. 21 | May 2 (May 9) |
| Apr. 28 | May 9 (May 16) |
| May 5 | May 16 (May 23) |
| May 12 | May 23 (May 30) |
| May 19 | May 30 (June 6) |
In case your IRS income tax refund is delayed after you’ve filed, reach out to your tax professional or utilize the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website for an update. You can also download the IRS2Go app for easy access to check your refund status. To speed up the process, make sure to e-file as soon as you gather all your tax documents (like W2s, 1099s, mortgage interest, and other important papers) since e-filing typically ensures a quicker response time.
Several factors can affect how quickly you receive your tax refund, including:
- When you file your return;
- If you’re claiming certain credits (notably EITC and CTC);
- Whether you e-file or mail your return;
- If you have outstanding debts to the federal government.
Play it Safe – Hire a Professional
There are also useful apps for Apple, Android, and other devices available to help you track your refund status.
What If You Can’t File By April 15?
If life throws you a curveball and you can’t file by April 15, don’t panic! You can easily file for an extension using the “Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.” (Check out the IRS Form 4868 here.) This grants you until October 15, 2025, to complete your federal tax return—no excuses necessary for the extension! Just remember to check the extension rules for your state, as those deadlines might differ from the federal one.
Keep in mind that if you owe taxes, you still need to pay them by April 15, 2025, even if you file for an extension! A tax professional can guide you through that payment process. If you’re expecting a refund, you only need to submit your extension request by April 15, 2025. Most tax professionals, as well as do-it-yourself tax software, can help you with this.
Last-Minute Tax Tips for the End of 2024:
Tax Refund Estimators:
Now is the time to make sure you’re ready to tackle tax season head-on. Gather your documents, consult with a professional, and get excited about your potential refund! You’ve got this!
