IRS Refund Tracker: Estimated Refund Time Based on E-Filing Date

With tax season around the corner, many people are starting to navigate the IRS refund process. Knowing when to expect your refund can help you manage expenses, savings, and investments more efficiently.

Why It Matters

Taxpayers are eager to know the status of their IRS refunds to manage their finances effectively. According to the IRS, most refunds are issued within 21 days of filing. However, estimates vary and could take longer if you file by mail or your return needs corrections or extra review.

IRS Refund Schedule: Day-by-Day Breakdown

After filing your tax return, you can monitor its status using the IRS's Where's My Refund? tool, available on the IRS website and the IRS2Go mobile app. You'll need your Social Security number, filing status and the exact refund amount to access your information. The tool provides updates at three stages: return received, refund approved and refund sent. Remember, the IRS updates refund status information once daily, typically overnight.

Once your return is accepted, the processing time can vary:

• Paper checks may take an additional week or two.
• Delays may occur if your return is flagged for additional review.
• If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), expect your refund no earlier than late February due to IRS processing rules.

The Internal Revenue Service building is seen in Washington, DC, in February 2, 2024. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI / Contributor/Getty Images

When Is the Earliest I Can File?

The IRS began accepting tax returns for the 2025 tax season on January 27, 2025. Filing as early as possible can expedite your refund, especially if you opt for e-filing and direct deposit.

E-filing significantly reduces processing times compared to paper filings, and direct deposit ensures that your refund is deposited directly into your bank account, often within 21 days. Additionally, filing early helps you avoid the rush and potential delays that can occur closer to the tax deadline.

What Is the Standard Deduction for the 2024 Year?

The standard deduction is a specific dollar amount that reduces the income on which you're taxed. Instead of itemizing your deductions, you can opt for the standard deduction, which simplifies the process of filing your taxes. This deduction varies based on your filing status, and it's adjusted each year for inflation.

For the 2024 tax year, the standard deduction amounts are as follows:

Single or married filing separately: $14,600
Married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er): $29,200
Head of household: $21,900

These amounts have been adjusted for inflation and can reduce your taxable income, potentially increasing your refund.

What Is the Deadline to File?

The deadline to file your federal tax return for the 2024 tax year is April 15, 2025. If you cannot file by this date, you can request an extension until October 15, 2025. However, an extension to file is not an extension to pay; any taxes owed are still due by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.

For those impacted by disasters, the IRS provides special tax relief. For example, taxpayers affected by Hurricane Helene have until May 1, 2025, to file their 2024 tax returns and make any payments due. Similarly, victims of the California wildfires have an extended deadline until October 15, 2025, to file their returns and make payments.

What People Are Saying

IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel said in a press call: "Nine out of 10 taxpayers will see their refund within 21 days, and often sooner,"

Alison Flores, Manager at The Tax Institute at H&R Block, previously told Newsweek: "If you are unable to meet a tax filing deadline, it's important to file as soon as possible to reduce the penalties and interest accrued. If you're getting a tax refund, you won't have to worry about being charged any penalties or interest. If you owe taxes, the failure to pay and failure to file penalties may apply.

If you're unable to pay the full amount owed, you can request to pay your taxes in installments with an IRS payment plan. While it's best to pay your taxes on time, setting up an installment agreement (payment plan) can help reduce further penalties.

The standard deadline for most filers is April 15, but those impacted by a natural disaster should check the IRS to see if they qualify for extensions. You can check the IRS website for your specific state and county to ensure your area is eligible."

What Happens Next

By March 1, 2025, most taxpayers who filed early should have received their refunds. If you haven't received your refund within this timeframe, the IRS recommends checking the "Where's My Refund?" tool or contacting them for more information.

Keep an eye on any IRS communications, as they might request additional information or clarification, which could delay your refund. Plan for your refund's arrival by setting financial goals, whether for paying off debt, saving, or making significant purchases.