If you filed your 2024 tax return before the April 15, 2025, deadline, you might be wondering, “Where’s my tax refund?” Typically, the IRS issues most refunds within 21 calendar days. However, several factors can influence the timing of your refund this year.
What’s New for 2025
The IRS has enhanced its “Where’s My Refund?” tool, providing more detailed updates at each stage of the refund process. Now, you can receive real-time updates on:
- Confirmation that your return was received
- Approval of your refund
- Issuance date of your refund
These improvements aim to reduce the need for taxpayers to call the IRS for refund status updates.
Common Reasons for Refund Delays
Several factors can cause delays in receiving your tax refund:
- Filing Method. Electronically filed returns are typically processed faster than paper returns. E-filed returns can be checked within 24 hours, while paper returns may take up to four weeks to appear in the system.
- Errors or Incomplete Information. Mistakes or missing information can slow down processing.
- Identity Theft or Fraud Concerns. If the IRS suspects identity theft or fraud, they may delay your refund for further review.
- Claiming Certain Tax Credits. Returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may experience delays due to additional verification processes.
How to Check The Status of Your Tax Refund
You can check the status of your tax refund online at Where’s My Refund? on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go mobile app. Keep in mind that if you filed your tax return by mail, you must wait at least four (4) weeks to use the tool to check your status.
Before using the refund tracker tool, make sure you have the following information available:
- Your Social Security number (SSN) or ITIN
- Filing status
- The exact refund amount on your return
Once all information is entered, your refund status should be displayed as return received, refund approved, or refund sent. If your status is refund approved and you selected direct deposit, the date your refund is being sent to your bank should also be provided. Please wait at least 5 business days after that date to check your bank account to verify the deposit. For mailed checks, it can take several weeks before the refund arrives.
If your status is still showing as return received, be sure to check back daily as the system updates nightly.
When To Contact The IRS
Do not call the IRS unless it has been more than three weeks (21 days) since you e-filed or six weeks since filing by mail. To check your tax refund status, call 800-829-1040. Keep in mind that you may be on hold for quite some time. The average wait time is 30 minutes or longer. Mondays and Tuesdays tend to have higher call volumes, so expect longer delays. You can also find more information about tax refunds by visiting the “What to Expect for Refunds This Year” page on the IRS website.