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Waiting for your IRS refund? Here's how long it will take to be deposited

Tax season is here, and many are wondering when their IRS refund will arrive. Here´s what you need to know about proccesing times, delays and how to track your payment.

The IRS began accepting returns from taxpayers on January. Photo: LR Composition.
The IRS began accepting returns from taxpayers on January. Photo: LR Composition.

Most people get their refund within 21 days if they file online and use direct deposit. But some paybacks take longer, especially if you claim Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). If you filed a paper return, it may take six weeks or more.

The best way to check your refund status is through the IRS "Where’s My Refund?" tool. You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and refund amount. The system updates once per day, so there’s no need to check repeatedly.

How soon will your tax remuneration show up in your account?

The timing of your tax refund depends on how you filed your return. If you tabulated electronically, your remission is processed much faster than if you documented a paper return and are waiting for a check. Most refunds are issued in less than three weeks, but keep in mind that some returns may need additional review.

However, be aware that some returns may require extra review, which could delay your refund. The IRS suggests not counting on receiving your pay back by a certain date, particularly when making significant compensation or purchases.

Why is my tax refund taking longer than expected?

Refund delays can happen for several reasons, such as errors, missing information, or identity theft issues. Claims for credits like the earned income or child tax credit can also cause hold-ups. Plus, it may take time for your bank to process and post the refund to your account.

What's the best way to get your payment? Here's how to find out

To check your refund status, visit the IRS website and use the "Where's My Refund?" tool by entering your Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your tax return.

Once you’ve entered the information, you’ll see one of the following updates: the IRS has either received your return and is processing it, approved your refund and is preparing to send it, via direct deposit or mail. If it’s sent by direct deposit, it may take up to 5 days to appear in your bank account, or several weeks for a paper check to arrive.

When must you submit your tax return to avoid penalties?

The deadline to submit your 2024 federal income tax return is on April 15, but if you're living overseas, you have until June 16. The IRS clarifies that for electronic filers, the time must be before 11:59 p.m. Paper returns are on time as long as they are postmarked by the deadline and mailed with the correct address and postage.