As the April 15 deadline for filing taxes approaches, the IRS is processing millions of tax returns – and issuing refunds to eligible taxpayers across the country.
While many early filers already received their refunds in February and March, thousands more are expected to receive payments in April 2025.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re still waiting on your refund – or planning to file in the final stretch of tax season.
Who Gets IRS Refunds in April?
- Late Filers: Taxpayers who file closer to the April 15 deadline can expect refunds within 21 days of the IRS accepting their return. That places many refunds in mid-to-late April.
- EITC & ACTC Claimants: Refunds involving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are subject to special review under the PATH Act. Delays are common, especially for late submissions.
- Paper Filers: Taxpayers who mailed in their returns may experience 4–8 weeks of processing time, which pushes many payments into April and even May.
How to Check Your Refund Status
The IRS recommends using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go mobile app. Refund statuses are updated:
- Within 24 hours of e-filing
- Four weeks after mailing a paper return
The tool provides real-time updates through three stages: Return Received, Refund Approved, and Refund Sent.
What Might Delay Your Refund
- Errors or Omissions: Incorrect Social Security numbers, unreported income, or mismatched employer info can slow processing.
- Incomplete Information: Missing forms or documents may trigger a manual review.
- Identity Verification: Some returns are flagged for identity or income verification, extending wait times.
Tips to Get Your Refund Faster
- File electronically – e-filing is faster and more accurate.
- Choose direct deposit – it speeds up delivery significantly.
- Double-check your return for errors before submitting.
Final Reminder
While most refunds are issued within the standard 21-day window, the IRS reminds taxpayers not to rely on a specific payment date when planning major purchases or bills. Refund timing varies depending on the complexity of your return and how you filed.
For more updates on tax deadlines, refund delays, and payment tips, visit IRS.gov.
- IRS Tax Refunds April 2025 Schedule: Who’s Getting Paid & When - April 2, 2025
- Will Luigi Mangione Get the Death Penalty? What We Know So Far - April 1, 2025
- The EV Reckoning: Why Tesla’s Struggles Are Bigger Than Elon - April 1, 2025
