IRS income tax refund 2025 schedule and what to expect this season

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) opened the 2025 tax season on January 27, aiming to process over 140 million individual returns before the April 15 deadline. While most refunds will be issued within 21 days of filing, several factors can affect processing times.

Citizens claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may experience slight delays due to extra verification required by federal law. Understanding the IRS refund schedule and key factors for 2025 can help manage expectations and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

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Estimated IRS refund schedule for 2025

Refund timing depends on when a return is filed and how it’s processed. E-filing with direct deposit is the fastest method, while paper returns and mailed checks take longer. Here’s an estimated refund schedule based on the IRS’s historical processing times:

• If accepted by January 27, 2025 → Direct deposit: February 7, 2025 | Paper check: February 14, 2025
• If accepted by February 3, 2025 → Direct deposit: February 14, 2025 | Paper check: February 21, 2025
• If accepted by February 10, 2025 → Direct deposit: February 21, 2025 | Paper check: February 28, 2025
• If accepted by February 17, 2025 → Direct deposit: February 28, 2025 | Paper check: March 7, 2025

Returns claiming the EITC or ACTC may experience delays, with refunds typically arriving in early March. Taxpayers can track refunds using the IRS "Where’s My Refund?" tool for real-time updates.

Factors that may delay your tax refund

Although the IRS strives to process refunds quickly, several factors can cause delays. Common issues include errors on your tax return, such as incorrect Social Security numbers, missing forms, or wrong banking information.

Another potential delay is an Internal Revenue Service security review. To prevent fraud, returns may be flagged for extra screening if they appear suspicious. This often results in longer processing times, especially for first-time filers or those with significant income changes.

How to ensure a faster payment

To receive your refund as quickly as possible, e-file and choose direct deposit. This method typically speeds up processing compared to paper filings. E-filed returns with direct deposit are usually processed within three weeks.

Double-check all information before submitting your return. Make sure names, Social Security numbers, and bank details are correct to avoid delays. Also, keep copies of your W-2s, 1099s, and other necessary forms to prevent incomplete filings. With the 2025 tax season underway, understanding the refund process and avoiding common mistakes will help you get your refund without delays.