IRS Refund Timeline: Here’s When You’ll Get Your Money

The IRS expects 140 million people to file tax returns by April 15. The agency has also launched a new online tool to help taxpayers check their refund status.

President Donald Trump recently announced a federal employee buyout program to reduce government staff. It is unclear how this will affect the IRS during the busy tax season.

When Will You Get Your Refund?

The IRS says refund processing times depend on how you file:

• Electronic filing with direct deposit – Refund arrives within 21 days or less.
• Paper returns – Refund can take four weeks or more.
• Returns with errors or amendments – May take longer than expected.

The IRS warns taxpayers not to rely on refunds for big purchases or bills since processing times can vary.

How to Track Your Refund

The IRS offers a tool called “Where’s My Refund?” You can check your refund status:

• Within 24 hours of e-filing.
• Within four weeks of mailing a paper return.

You’ll need:

• Your Social Security or ITIN number
• Your filing status
• Your expected refund amount

The IRS updates refund status once a day overnight.

How Do Refunds Work?

If you paid more in taxes than you owe, you will get a refund. You can also qualify for a refund if you are eligible for certain tax credits.

Common refundable credits include:

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
• Child Tax Credit

To receive a refund, you must file a tax return. You have three years to claim any refund owed to you.

Do You Qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit?

The EITC helps low- to moderate-income workers. To qualify:

• Your investment income must be under $11,600.
• Your earned income must be below certain limits:
  • Single with no children: $18,591 or less
  • Married filing jointly with 3+ children: $66,819 or less

Use the EITC Assistant tool on the IRS website to see if you qualify.

Who Can Claim the Child Tax Credit?

The Child Tax Credit offers up to $2,000 per child. To qualify, the child must:

• Have a Social Security number
• Be under age 17 at the end of 2024
• Be claimed as a dependent on your tax return

You qualify for the full credit if your income is:

• $200,000 or less (single filers)
• $400,000 or less (joint filers)

What’s New This Year?

The IRS expanded its free Direct File program to 25 states (up from 12 last year).

• This program allows eligible taxpayers to file directly with the IRS without using commercial tax software.
• In 2024, users of this program claimed over $90 million in refunds.

This could help millions of Americans file their taxes faster and for free.

The IRS urges taxpayers to file early and choose direct deposit to get their refunds faster.