Tax filing season is in full gear as some people are already waiting and wondering when their refund will arrive. Here’s what to know.
How to check on my IRS refund status?
The IRS has an online tool called ‘Where’s My Refund‘ that allows you to check on the status of your refund, click here.
The online tool requires you to enter your Social Security Number, filing status and exact refund amount on the return. It will then respond with a return received (processing), refund approved (preparing to issue refund by date shown) or refund sent (send to your bank or in the mail).
When will my refund arrive?
If your return was accepted — you will know it has if you see a “Refund Sent” alert when you check your tax return status online — you won’t have to wait too long for the funds to show up in your account.
According to the IRS, It could take five days for your refund to show in your bank account, and up to several weeks for your check to arrive in the mail.
How to check on my state refund status?
Most states have dedicated online portals for tracking income tax returns.
The New Jersey Division of Taxation has established an online portal you can access to check the status of your state refund. Note that you refund status will be made available roughly four weeks after filing an electronic return, and up to 12 weeks if you filed a paper return.
After you enter your Social Security number and expected refund amount, you will receive a status update on your return.
Refunds are paid when taxpayers have too much tax withheld from their paycheck during the year.
Last year, the average refund for federal taxes topped $3,200, according to IRS data.
How do I file my taxes for free? What is IRS Direct File?
Direct File is a new IRS program that allows millions of Americans with uncomplicated taxes to file returns at no cost.
Piloted in a dozen states last year, Direct File expanded to 25 states in 2025. The full list: Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
The IRS says 30 million taxpayers qualify to use the free service this year — pretty much anyone with a relatively straightforward return. The Direct File site will help you decide if you are eligible.
“Above all, our goal is to improve the experience of tax filing itself and help taxpayers meet their obligations quickly and easily,” said Danny Werfel, the now-former IRS commissioner, in a statement.
If you’re still waiting for your tax refund or any other type of refund, you’re probably wondering: Where’s my refund? Tracking your refund is easier than you think! Here’s how you can track your refund:
1. Check the status online: Many government agencies and companies offer online tools to track the status of your refund. Simply visit their website and enter your information to see where your refund is in the process.
2. Call the customer service hotline: If you can’t find the information online, calling the customer service hotline is another option. Make sure you have your refund information ready, such as your social security number and the amount of the refund.
3. Use a tracking app: There are several apps available that can help you track your refund status. These apps can provide real-time updates and notifications when your refund is processed.
Remember, refunds can take some time to process, so don’t panic if it’s taking longer than expected. By following these tips, you can easily track your refund and find out when you can expect to receive it.
Tax season is now underway, with the IRS accepting returns for all taxpayers as of Jan. 27. That’s prompting many people to turn to the “Where’s my refund?” app from the tax agency to track when they’ll get their check.
Americans are expected to file about 140 million returns before the April 15 deadline. Last year, about two-thirds of taxpayers got a refund, with the average check at about $3,100, according to IRS data.
A household’s tax refund may represent their biggest check for the entire year, with many consumers planning to use the money for debt repayment, emergency savings or a big purchase. To be sure, while a large refund may feel like a financial windfall, it actually represents income that taxpayers have overpaid to the IRS throughout the year.
That’s why some financial experts describe refund checks as tax-free loans to the U.S. government. Yet other experts note that tax refunds can act as a form of forced savings that a household might not otherwise be able to accomplish, allowing those taxpayers to reap the benefit in their annual refund.
Whatever the case might be, tracking your refund can be done through the IRS’ “Where’s my refund” app, which the agency has sought to improve over the last few years. Here’s what to know.
How does “Where’s my refund?” work?
The IRS operates the “Where’s my refund?” service on its website, but taxpayers can also use a mobile app called IRS2Go on their phones or other devices. Both services will provide information about your 2024 return about 24 hours after you e-file, the IRS says.
However, people who file paper returns will need to wait about 4 weeks for their information to appear on “Where’s my refund?” or the IRS2Go app.
Both services require taxpayers to enter information to be able to track their refunds:
Either your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number
Filing status, such as single filer or married filing jointly
The exact whole dollar amount of your expected refund from your original 2024 tax return
The IRS tracking services will then show you information on whether the agency has received your tax return, if the refund has been approved and when the money is scheduled to land in your account.
When will I get my tax refund?
That depends on whether you’ve file electronically or sent in a paper tax return, as well as if the IRS identifies any problems with your return.
People who e-filed their returns typically receive their refunds in less than 21 days. In other words, a taxpayer who filed their 1040 on Jan. 27 could receive their payment by Feb. 17, if all goes smoothly.
However, the IRS opened its Free File service on Jan. 10, which is a program offered through tax software companies for taxpayers with adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less in 2024. Those using Free File could be on tap to receive their refunds by Jan. 31.
What can delay your tax refund?
Filing a paper return can delay your refund because it requires IRS employees to process them, which takes more time than e-filed returns, which are largely handled by computers.
Claiming either the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can also slow down a tax refund. That’s because, by law, the IRS can’t issue refunds for returns that have claimed those tax credits before mid-February.
“The IRS expects most EITC/ACTC-related refunds to be available in taxpayer bank accounts or on debit cards by March 3 if they chose direct deposit and there are no other issues with their tax return,” the agency said on Monday.
Some issues can also trip up tax refunds, such as if there are math errors on your return, missing or incorrect Social Security numbers or misspelled names, according to the IRS. While these might be innocent mistakes, it can cause the IRS to flag your return and delay your refund.
What’s my new 2025 tax bracket?
The IRS has set new tax brackets for 2025, but that won’t impact the return you’ll file by April 15, since that 1040 reflects your 2024 income and taxes.
Each year, the IRS adjusts its tax brackets and dozens of other provisions to account for inflation. The idea is to shield taxpayers from “bracket creep” — when workers are pushed into higher tax bands due to the impact of cost-of-living adjustments aimed at offsetting inflation — without a change in their standard of living.
This year’s tax brackets are adjusted 2.8% higher from 2024, representing the smallest jump in several years. Because inflation jumped during the pandemic, the bracket adjustments reached 7% in 2023 and 5.4% in 2024.
Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.
Tax season is upon us, and with it comes the annual stress of filing our taxes and waiting for our refunds. Luckily, the IRS has made it easier than ever to track the status of your refund with their “Where’s my refund?” app.
The app allows taxpayers to check the status of their refund and see when it is expected to be deposited into their bank account. This can help alleviate some of the anxiety that comes with waiting for your refund to arrive.
In addition to the “Where’s my refund?” app, taxpayers should also be aware of the new tax brackets for the year 2025. These brackets determine how much tax you will owe based on your income level.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the new tax brackets so you can better plan for your tax liability and avoid any surprises come tax time. Be sure to consult with a tax professional if you have any questions about how these new brackets may impact your tax situation.
Overall, staying informed about the IRS “Where’s my refund?” app and the new 2025 tax brackets can help you navigate tax season with ease and confidence.
Tax season has officially begun as of Monday and thanks to the launch of the IRS’s new, free Direct File service, more taxpayers than ever may be filing their own returns this year.
For the 2023 tax season, the IRS processed 163,515,000 returns, resulting in an average refund of $3,170, a slight increase from the previous season’s average of $3,145.
With inflation and skyrocketing prices hitting everything from grocery staples like eggs to other basics like gas, many Americans are hoping for an even larger refund this year. And, like the inclination to check on that pizza order minutes after you make it, it’s easy to find yourself champing at the bit to find out the status of your refund and when it may arrive.
Luckily, there’s a tool for that. The IRS service “Where’s my refund?” allows tax filers to check on and track the status of their refund, from the agency’s receipt of a return to the notice of it being sent.
Here’s what to know about using “Where’s my refund?”
What is ‘Where’s my refund?’ and how does it work?
The “Where is my refund?” tool is an IRS tracking system for filers to get updates on the status of their tax refund. Those looking to keep an eye on their money can log in online or via the IRS2Go mobile app and check back daily to see when they can expect their funds.
Once you log in to the tool and your information starts updating, it will do so once a day overnight. You will then see one of three potential statutes for your refund:
Return Received – The IRS received your return and is processing it.
Refund Approved – The IRS approved your refund and is preparing to issue it by a date that will be displayed on-screen.
Refund Sent – The IRS sent the refund to your bank or to you in the mail. It may take 5 days for it to show in your bank account or several weeks for your check to arrive in the mail.
How to sign up for ‘Where’s my refund?’
To get started with the “Where’s my refund?” tool, first navigate to www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund or download the IRS2GoApp in English or Spanish on the Google Play, Apple App or Amazon app stores.
To sign in and check your status, you’ll need some specific information, including:
Your Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN)
Your filing status (single, married, joint, etc.)
The exact dollar refund amount on your 2024 return
Users should note that their refund information will only appear after a certain amount of time depending on how they filed. Your refund status will be updated:
Tax season officially started on Jan. 27, meaning the IRS began accepting filings on Monday. Most people have until the middle of April to submit their taxes, which seems like plenty of time until it sneaks up on you like deadlines often do.
The IRS also launched its new Direct File service for the 2024-2025 season. Taxpayers in 25 states are now eligible to use the free service if they made no more than $200,000 in 2024 for a single filer, $250,000 for married couples filing jointly and $125,000 for married couples filing separately.
Some important dates to keep in mind this tax filing season:
Jan. 31: Deadline for employers to send W-2 forms. This is also the deadline to send certain 1099 tax documents, like 1099-NEC documents for self-employed side income.
Feb. 18: Deadline to reclaim your exemption from withholding. If you claim exemptions on your income taxes, you must submit a new W-4 to your employer by this date to continue being exempt.
April 15: Tax Day filing deadline for federal and most state tax returns. This is also the deadline to request an extension or to make HSA and IRA contributions in tax year 2024.
For e-filers, tax refunds usually come within about 21 days of filing. It can take six to eight weeks after the IRS receives your return to receive a refund if you get it via mail.
Are you still waiting for your tax refund to arrive? Don’t worry, you can easily track it using the IRS website or app. Here’s how:
1. Visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov and click on the “Refunds” tab. From there, you can select “Where’s My Refund?” and enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund.
2. If you prefer to track your refund on the go, you can download the IRS2Go app on your smartphone. Simply input the same information as mentioned above and you’ll be able to see the status of your refund in real-time.
3. Keep in mind that it may take some time for your refund to be processed, especially during peak tax season. The IRS updates their refund status once a day, so be sure to check back regularly for any updates.
So, if you’re wondering “Where’s my refund?” make sure to use these resources to track your tax refund and get peace of mind knowing when it will be deposited into your bank account.
Tax season is here, and many in New Jersey and across the country may be wondering how to track your IRS Tax refund.
The IRS provides a free tool where taxpayers can track their refund, after they have completed their tax returns.
How to track your tax return
The government tracking system requires you to enter information such as your social security or taxpayer ID number, the exact refund amount on your return, your filing status and the tax return year.
The refund status will appear in 24 hours if you e-filed a current-year tax return. For a prior year tax-return, if you e-filed your tax return status will appear in three to four days. If you paper filed your tax returns, your return status will appear in four weeks.
There are different stages within your refund status. There is “return received” which means the IRS received and are currently processing your return. The status “refund approved” means exactly that, the IRA approved of your tax refund and will issue on the date shown. “Refund sent” is the status stage where the IRS sends the return to your bank, where it will five days to show up in your bank account, or in the mail where it may take several weeks to arrive.
What to know about tax returns
By now, many employees should have already received their W-2 forms from their employer, as they needed to be mailed, physically delivered or electronically sent out by Jan. 31.
You can start preparing your tax returns as soon as you receive your W-2 form. The IRS typically starts accepting tax returns in late January, with the expected date for 2025 being Jan. 27. However, the IRS refund status page does not show 2025 tax season as an option yet.
When are taxes due?
Tax Day is typically April 15 when tax forms are due. Tax returns were due on April 16 last year because April 15 fell on Emancipation Day, a legal holiday in Washington, D.C.
How much is my tax refund?
Tax refunds vary from person to person. Completing your tax returns determines if you paid too little or too much in taxes the previous year.
In 2024, the average refund topped $3,200, according to IRS data.
New Jersey IRS Direct File
The Garden State is now part of the IRS direct file service where you can file state and federal tax returns with input from tax experts and residents in this free and secure online tool.
Those who have lived in New Jersey for all of 2024, have earned all of their income within the state and plan to use the same filing status for both federal and state returns qualify for the program.
The tool is available in English and Spanish and can operate on mobile devices, tablets and personal computers
The program was made to ensure eligible taxpayers are automatically enrolled in money-saving tax credits while also making filing taxes easier and affordable.
Are you eagerly awaiting your IRS tax refund but still haven’t received it? The IRS refund tracker can help you find out “where’s my refund?” With just a few simple steps, you can track the status of your refund and get an idea of when you can expect to receive it.
By visiting the IRS website and entering some basic information, such as your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund, you can quickly check the status of your refund. The tracker will provide you with real-time updates on the processing of your refund, including whether it has been approved, sent for payment, or if there are any issues that need to be resolved.
Don’t spend another day wondering about the status of your tax refund. Use the IRS refund tracker to stay informed and get your money as soon as possible.
It’s only been a few days since the start of tax season, but if you’ve submitted your tax return early, you may be wondering when your refund will arrive. There’s a simple way to find out when your money will come — you can use the IRS tool that lets you see the status of your tax refund. We’ll explain how to track the status of your refund and any money the IRS owes you.
The fastest way to check the status of your tax refund is by using the IRS tool Where’s My Refund? tracker. The tool tells you where you are in the process and also lets you know if there are any issues with your return, such as rejection due to errors.
This status information is updated once each day, overnight.
How to get started
CNET
To use the tracker, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), your filing status (single, married or head of household) and your refund amount in whole dollars.
Visit the tracker page on the IRS website and click the Check your refund button. Once directed to the Refund Status page, enter your details and click Submit. You should be directed to your refund status.
Note that it takes 24 hours after you e-file your 2025 return or four weeks after you file a paper tax return for your status to appear.
What are the different statuses?
When you check the IRS tool for your refund status, it will show you one of three messages.
Received: The IRS has your tax return and is working to process it.
Approved: The IRS has processed your return and confirmed the amount of your refund (if applicable).
Sent: Your tax refund is on its way to your bank via direct deposit or as a paper check sent to your mailbox.
Other resources to track your refund
The IRS has a mobile app, IRS2Go, that can monitor your tax refund status. The app can be downloaded for both iOS and Android and is available in English and Spanish.
On the app, you can track if your return has been received, approved or sent.
To log in, you’ll need your Social Security number, filing status and the expected amount of your refund. The IRS also updates the app overnight, so if you don’t see a status change, check back the following day.
Can I track a refund from a previous tax year?
Yes, the Where’s My Refund? tool allows you to track a refund since the 2022 tax year.
If you’re looking for return details from years prior to the 2022 tax season, you’ll need to check your IRS online account. You’ll be able to see the total amount you owe, your payment history, details about your most recent tax return, notices you’ve received from the IRS and your address on file.
Why am I seeing Tax Topic 152 or an IRS error message?
On the Where’s My Refund? tracker, you may see a status other than received, approved or sent. Here’s how to decode what those messages mean.
Tax Topic 152: This means you’re likely getting a refund, but it hasn’t been approved or issued yet. This message includes a link to an informational page on the IRS FAQ website, explaining refund types and timelines.
Tax Topic 151: Your tax return is under IRS review. This could be to verify certain credits or dependents or because the IRS believes you owe money, which could result in a reduced refund. You’ll need to wait about four weeks for a notice from the IRS detailing what steps you need to take.
There are other IRS refund codes that apply to a small number of filers, such as those indicating issues with freezes, math errors or undelivered checks. You can visit The College Investor for a list of IRS refund reference codes and what they mean.
Why was my refund mailed instead of sent via direct deposit?
Filing electronically and setting up direct deposit is the quickest method to receive your tax refund. In fact, this combination can get you your tax refund in about 21 days as opposed to the four weeks it usually takes for a paper refund check.
There are several reasons why your refund might be mailed instead of being directly deposited into your bank account:
You need to have provided the correct account and routing numbers for the deposit to go through.
Direct deposits can only be made into an account in your name, your spouse’s name or a joint account with both names.
The IRS can only process direct deposits for up to three refunds into a single account.
Are you eagerly awaiting your 2025 tax refund but haven’t received it yet? Don’t worry, there are ways to track the status of your money and ensure it’s on its way to you. Here’s how:
1. Check the IRS website: The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has a “Where’s My Refund?” tool on their website where you can track the status of your tax refund. Simply enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund to see where it is in the process.
2. Contact the IRS: If you’re having trouble using the online tool or have further questions about your refund, you can also contact the IRS directly. You can call their refund hotline at 1-800-829-1954 or visit your local IRS office for assistance.
3. Be patient: It’s important to remember that processing times for tax refunds can vary, especially during peak tax season. The IRS typically issues refunds within 21 days of receiving your tax return, but it may take longer if there are errors or discrepancies in your filing.
4. Double-check your information: Make sure you provided the correct banking information for direct deposit and that there are no errors on your tax return that could delay your refund. If you filed electronically, double-check your email for any notifications from the IRS about your refund status.
By following these steps, you can track the status of your 2025 tax refund and ensure that your money is on its way to you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the IRS for assistance if you have any concerns or questions about your refund.
CONNECTICUT — Taxpayers in Connecticut who plan to file their 2024 federal income tax refunds in the opening days of the 2025 tax season can check the status of their refunds using the Internal Revenue Service’s Where’s My Refund tool.
Taxpayers filing electronically can get a status report within 24 hours, while it may take four weeks for taxpayers who filed paper returns to get information about when to expect their refunds.
Information is updated overnight every day, so there’s no need to check multiple times a day.
Refund information is available for the 2024 and previous two tax years, according to the IRS. The agency also said it expects to maintain levels of service achieved in the past, including wait times of less than five minutes for assistance.
“Wait times are longer on Mondays and Tuesdays, during Presidents’ Day weekend and around the April tax filing deadline,” the IRS website says.
Also, the IRS says, refunds may be delayed if returns need corrections or an extra review. The agency will send a letter to those taxpayers.
The IRS expects 140 million people to file individual returns before the filing deadline on Tuesday, April 15. State income tax deadlines also fall on April 15 in most states. There are some exceptions, and nine states — Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming —do not have a state income tax.
The Where’s My Refund tool only works for federal returns.
Are you eagerly awaiting your IRS tax refund in Connecticut and wondering where it is? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
First, make sure you have all the necessary information on hand, such as your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your expected refund.
Next, visit the IRS website and use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track the status of your refund. Simply enter your information and the website will provide you with an update on when you can expect to receive your money.
If you prefer to check your refund status over the phone, you can call the IRS Refund Hotline at 1-800-829-1954.
Remember, it may take some time for your refund to be processed, so be patient and keep checking back for updates. With these tips, you’ll be able to track your IRS tax refund in Connecticut with ease.
Monday marked the first day people can file their 2024 year taxes with the Internal Revenue Service. While many of us will file in the coming months, early filers are already wondering when they will see a refund check or direct deposit.
And while taxes can be confusing, the money you get back can be a boost or just help to make ends meet.
A recent survey conducted by Qualtrics for Intuit Credit Karma of 1,000 U.S. adults found, “of those who depend on their refund to make ends meet, nearly half (45%) say it’s because of the rising cost of living and necessities (i.e. housing, groceries). Others point to inflation (41%), living paycheck to paycheck (37%) and depleted savings (21%).”
Here’s a look at when you can expect a refund from the IRS and how you can track it this tax season.
On average, three out of every four tax filers can expect to see a refund. When that refund comes in depends on when you file your tax return and the processing time with the IRS. And it also depends on how you file.
If you file (or have filed) electronically and choose direct deposit, your refund will probably be issued within 21 days, the IRS says. If you mail a paper return, expect roughly six to eight weeks from the date the IRS receives the filing.
These dates all depend if your filing is accurate and complete.
Can I track the status of my tax refund?
Yes! The IRS has a handy site so you can track the progress of your refund with the “Where’s My Refund” tool. Here’s what you’ll need to check on your refund status, according to the IRS:
Your social security or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN)
Your filing status
The exact refund amount on your return
You’ll have to wait a bit after you file to start tracking the refund though.
Your 2024 income tax refund can be tracked 24 hours after e-filing or after four weeks if you filed by paper. The IRS says the information is updated once daily, overnight.
When can I file my taxes in 2025?
The IRS is accepting people’s 2024 taxes starting Monday, Jan. 27. People have several months to file them via mail and online by themselves or through a tax preparer.
When is Tax Day 2025?
Like most other years, you have until Tuesday, April 15. Tax Day always falls on that date, unless April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, or you happen to file an extension.
Are you eagerly awaiting your tax refund for the 2025 tax season? If so, you may find yourself asking, “Where’s my refund?” Luckily, there are several ways you can track the status of your refund and get an estimate of when you can expect to receive it.
One of the easiest ways to track your refund is by using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool on their website. Simply enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund to get an updated status on your return.
Another option is to download the IRS2Go app on your smartphone, which allows you to track your refund on the go. The app also provides tax tips and other helpful resources.
If you prefer speaking with a representative, you can call the IRS refund hotline at 1-800-829-1954. Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund.
By utilizing these tools, you can stay informed about the status of your refund and plan accordingly for when you can expect to receive it. Happy tax season!
Tax season is slated to begin on Monday, and that means the time to file is almost here.
But for those excepting a refund – the wait won’t be over once the season officially begins.
According to the Internal Revenue Service, most refunds are issued in less than 21 days. However, there may be delays on some occasions.
“The IRS warns taxpayers not to rely on receiving a refund by a certain date, especially when making large purchases or paying bills,” the agency said. “Some returns may require additional review and may take longer.”
The IRS does make it easy for taxpayers to check the status of their refunds through a free tool called “Where’s My Refund?”
To check the status of your refund you will need the following personal information:
Once you have that information, you can start your verification request in the “Where’s My Refund” tool here.
You can start checking the status of your refund within:
24 hours after electronically filing a 2024 tax return
3 or 4 days after electronically filing a 2023 return
4 weeks after mailing the return
As tax season kicks off, many people are eagerly awaiting their tax refunds. However, it’s important to know that the process may take longer than usual this year due to the ongoing pandemic and other factors.
If you’re wondering “Where’s my refund?” here are a few key things to keep in mind:
1. Check your refund status online: The IRS has a tool called “Where’s My Refund?” that allows you to track the status of your refund. Simply enter your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount to see where your money is.
2. Be patient: With the IRS facing challenges like staff shortages and a backlog of returns from last year, it’s possible that processing times may be longer than usual. It’s important to be patient and avoid contacting the IRS unless necessary.
3. File electronically and choose direct deposit: Filing your taxes electronically and opting for direct deposit can help speed up the refund process. Paper returns may take longer to process, so it’s best to go digital if possible.
4. Avoid tax refund scams: Be cautious of any emails, phone calls, or messages claiming to be from the IRS about your refund. The IRS will never contact you by phone, email, or social media to request personal or financial information.
Overall, it’s important to stay informed and be prepared for potential delays in receiving your tax refund this year. By following these tips and staying patient, you can hopefully get your refund in a timely manner.
New Year, new presidential administration and Congress. Will President Trump’s second term, new cabinet secretaries and other things affect the taxes you’re filing now? Well, probably not this yes, since tax filing season is already almost underway (the IRS will start accepting returns on January 27), but it’s possible to “pre-file” if you already have all of your documents.
If you’re wondering how long it may take to get your refund when you finally submit your income tax return, you’re not alone. In fact, for almost 15 years, the question we get the most often has been: “When will I get my tax refund?” Nobody can give you an exact answer, especially this far out, but we can give you a pretty good estimate based on a few factors, and the 50-year collective experience of the CPA Practice Advisor team.
Right now, you want to know: “When can I expect to get my tax refund?” – Just scroll down if you want to see the easy chart refund date estimator.
Although Americans say they hate the IRS more than any other agency and everyone groans about taxes, there are many millions who actually look forward to getting a tax refund in February, March or April (sometimes later). Many have already thought about how they will spend it. Pay off bills? Nah. Take a vacation! A cruise? Las Vegas!!?
First, keep in mind that you need to wait to file until you receive all of your tax forms from your employer, as well as colleges, mortgages and other documents. If you have complex finances, got married or divorced, had a child, retired, bought or sold a house, own crypto or foreign assets, those will make things more complex. In these situations, you should definitely seek the advice of a tax professional like a CPA or EA in order to make sure you are complying with tax laws and also taking advantage of new or lesser known tax deductions and credits that could benefit you.
But most Americans have pretty simple taxes: A job or two (form W-2), maybe a side gig (forms 1099 or 1099-NEC), some child tax credits, maybe a mortgage or a few minor additions. The chart below is for you.
Short Answer: Depending on when taxpayers file their returns, they can often receive their federal tax refund payment (check or direct deposit) within 10-21 days. If the IRS starts accepting returns at the end of January, as is usual, that means that someone who is able to file right away and are a due a refund, can often see the refund as early as mid- or late February if they have it direct deposited. That’s without an expensive “tax refund loan” or other similar product.
If you have multiple forms of income or certain assets, or certain family situations, you will likely have to wait a bit longer for all of your tax documents to come in before you are able to file. In particular taxpayers might have to wait a little longer if they have:
The Earned Income Tax Credit,
Child Tax Credit,
And a few other credits that require confirmation.
So, here’s the chart you were looking for. If the IRS announces any changes to tax law or potential date changes, we will update this chart. And remember: This is only an estimate of when to expect your refund.
Do not take these dates as exact predictions, as all taxpayers have different tax returns, documents, incomes, and other situations. Note that the first column is when the IRS “accepts” your return, which can be 2-3 days after the day you submitted it electronically, and the IRS will notify you of the actual date on which the agency “accepted” your return (usually by text or email). Mailing in a paper return can result in 3-4 weeks’ extra delay at the beginning of the process, since the IRS will need to enter it into their computer systems manually.
Estimated 2025 IRS Income Tax Return Chart
If the IRS Accepts an E-Filed Return By:
Then Direct Deposit refund may be received as earlyas 10 days after e-file accepted. (E-filed, but paper check mailed apx. 1 week after that):
The IRS will 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)***
** = Returns with EITC or CTC may have refunds delayed until March to verify credits.
*** = Filing during peak season (late March through April 15) can result in slightly longer waits.
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)
If your IRS income tax refund is delayed after you’ve filed, ask your tax professional, or simply use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website to check the status of your refund. Or you can download the IRS2Go app to check your refund status. It’s a good idea to e-file your tax return as soon as you have all of your tax documents (like your W2, 1099s, mortgage and student loan interest, and other items) as e-filing generally ensures a faster turnaround time.
Several factors can determine when a taxpayer might receive his or her tax refund, including:
How early the return is filed;
If the taxpayer is claiming certain credits (especially EITC and CTC);
Whether the return is e-filed or sent by mail;
Whether the taxpayer has existing debts to the federal government.
Be Safe – Hire a Professional
Taxpayers who use a professional, such as a CPA or EA, can ask that professional for the estimated date of their tax refund, and they can be more confident that their taxes have been properly (and legally) filed. (And you can often save, or get a bigger refund, by using a professional.)
What If You Can’t File Your Income Taxes By April 15?
Any taxpayer who can’t file their return by April 15 for any reason (such as they don’t have all of the paperwork needed in order to file their taxes) can easily file an extension form, “Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.” (Link to IRS Form 4868.) Any tax pro can help you with this, as well. This will give the taxpayer until October 15, 2025, to file the federal tax return. No reason or excuse is needed to receive this extension, and as the title states, it is automatically granted. Be sure to check the extension rules for your particular state as the extension date may differ from the date for the federal return extension.
Note that if a person will owe taxes with the tax return, it is still that taxpayer’s obligation to pay those taxes by April 15, 2025, even if an extension to file has been requested. A tax professional can assist with this payment process. Those who are due a refund generally only need to file the extension request by April 15, 2025. Any tax professional and most do-it-yourself tax programs can perform this task.
Tax Refund Estimators:
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Are you eagerly awaiting your tax refund for the year 2025? Wondering when you can expect to receive that much-anticipated deposit in your bank account? Look no further – we’ve got you covered with some tips on how to estimate when you will get your refund.
First off, it’s important to note that the IRS typically issues refunds within 21 days of receiving your tax return. However, this timeline can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the complexity of your return, any errors or discrepancies that need to be corrected, and whether you choose to e-file or file by mail.
To get a better idea of when you can expect your refund, you can use the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, which allows you to track the status of your refund online. Simply enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact amount of your refund, and the tool will provide you with an estimated deposit date.
Additionally, you can also use a tax refund calculator to estimate when you might receive your refund based on your filing date, expected refund amount, and other relevant information. While these calculators are not always 100% accurate, they can give you a rough idea of when you might see that refund hit your account.
So, if you’re eagerly awaiting your tax refund for the year 2025, don’t fret – use these tips to estimate when you will get your refund and keep an eye on the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool for the most up-to-date information. Happy refund season!
Of the bat-first, power-hitting right-handed hitters, Pete Alonso is the lone player left in free agency who could move the needle for a team. Anthony Santander signed Monday with the Blue Jays. (Congrats to them on landing someone!) Teoscar Hernandez, Tyler O’Neill, Gleyber Torres, Paul Goldschmidt, and others have come and gone, and Pete finds himself at the end of the market, short on options, years, and dollars he thought he’d take advantage of this winter.
That being said, he will land somewhere and have an impact—at least in the short term. Where’s left for Pete Alonso to sign? Let’s take a look at some options.
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Right Back Home
The Mets have a glaring hole at a corner on the infield. Whether Mark Vientos shifts to first or he sticks at third, there’s a gap on the other side. We’ve long hashed what the infield could look like if Pete comes back or leaves. Despite insights from a couple of reporters, a bevy of others still say Pete returning to New York is in the cards. Signing A.J. Minter and Jesse Winker doesn’t prevent that.
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners traded their Opening Day first baseman, Ty France, away in the middle of the year and replaced him with Justin Turner. Turner provided more pop, but he wasn’t any sort of long-term fit. Their top power-hitting prospect, Tyler Locklear, severely underwhelmed in his cup of coffee last year. The plan currently seems to be to make Luke Raley more full-time first baseman, but having Alonso in that slot makes a ton of sense. It gives their team with below-average power more pop, and lets Raley continue to bop around where needed.
Toronto Blue Jays
Despite signing Anthony Santander, the Blue Jays reportedly still have interest in Alonso. With all the tough lefties in the AL East, bulking up righty power makes sense. Having a Vlad Guerrero Jr. backup makes sense, too. But fielding two of Alonso, Santander, and Vlad Jr. would be tough on their defense. They also just forked over $92.5 million to a power-hitting righty who struggles on defense and are probably about to negotiate another $400 million+ with Vlad Jr.
You never know what kind of deal Arte Moreno wants to give out. He’s been relatively tame this offseason. There were reports early in the offseason the Angels were interested. If all it takes is three years and $100 million, you can’t rule out an owner like Moreno.
Sure, there a ton of teams that would take Alonso on a short-term, opt-out-laden deal, but it seems based on the last back and forth with the Mets, he’d prefer to sign that kind of deal with the team that raised him. It might be a painful next couple of weeks for the Mets and Alonso, but ultimately, I think the road leads back to Queens.
Pete Alonso, the powerful first baseman for the New York Mets, has already made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young players in baseball. With his incredible power at the plate and infectious energy on the field, Alonso has quickly become a fan favorite in Queens.
But with his rookie contract set to expire soon, the question on everyone’s mind is: Where’s left for Pete Alonso to sign?
Rumors have been swirling about potential suitors for Alonso, with several teams reportedly interested in adding the slugger to their lineup. Some speculate that Alonso could stay with the Mets and sign a long-term extension, solidifying his place in the team’s future plans. Others believe that Alonso could be lured away by a big-market team offering a lucrative contract.
Regardless of where he ends up, one thing is for certain: Pete Alonso’s star is only going to continue to rise in the years to come. Keep an eye out for the latest updates on where Alonso will sign next, as the baseball world eagerly awaits his decision.
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