2025 Tax Refund Date Estimator: When Will You Get Your Refund?
As the tax filing season begins, many people are receiving their W-2 and other tax documents.
With taxes back on the mind, so is the question: when can you expect your tax refund? Will recent changes, like President Trump’s second term or new cabinet members, affect your taxes? Likely not, since the IRS has already started accepting returns as of January 27.
If you’re wondering how long it will take to receive your tax refund after filing, you’re not alone. For over 15 years, the most common question CPA Practice Advisor gets is: “When will I get my refund?” While it’s tough to pinpoint an exact date, a good estimate can be provided based on your specific situation. For an estimate of when you can expect your refund, scroll down to the chart.
Short Answer:
Typically, taxpayers who file early and are due for a refund can expect to receive it within 10-21 days. If you file right away and opt for direct deposit, your refund could arrive as early as mid to late February. This is without resorting to costly tax refund loans or similar products.
However, if your tax return involves multiple forms of income, assets, or family-related credits, you might have to wait a bit longer for all your documents to arrive. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC), and other credits often require additional processing time.
Refund Date Estimator Chart:
Here’s a chart to give you an idea of when your refund might arrive. Remember, these are estimates, not guarantees.
Estimated 2025 IRS Income Tax Return Chart
| If the IRS Accepts an E-Filed Return By: | Then Direct Deposit refund may be received as early as 10 days after e-file accepted. (E-filed, but paper check mailed apx. 1 week after that): |
|---|---|
| The IRS started accepting returns on Jan. 27, 2025. | |
| Jan. 27, 2025 | Feb. 7 (Feb. 14)** |
| Feb. 3 | Feb. 14 (Feb. 21)** |
| Feb. 10 | Feb. 21 (Feb. 28)** |
| Feb. 17 | Feb. 28 (Mar. 7)** |
| Feb. 24 | Mar. 7 (Mar. 14) |
| Mar. 3 | Mar. 14 (Mar. 21) |
| Mar. 10 | Mar. 21 (Mar. 28) |
| Mar. 17 | Mar. 28 (Apr. 4) |
| Mar. 24*** | Apr. 4 (Apr. 11)*** |
| Mar. 31*** | Apr. 11 (Apr. 18)*** |
| Apr. 7 *** | Apr. 18 (Apr. 25)*** |
| Apr. 14*** | Apr. 25 (May 2)*** |
** = Returns with EITC or CTC may have refunds delayed until March to verify credits.
*** = Filing during peak season (late March through April 15) can result in slightly longer waits.
| IRS Accepts Return By: | Direct Deposit Sent (Or Paper Check Mailed one week later) |
|---|---|
| Apr. 21 | May 2 (May 9) |
| Apr. 28 | May 9 (May 16) |
| May 5 | May 16 (May 23) |
| May 12 | May 23 (May 30) |
| May 19 | May 30 (June 6) |
Keep In mind:
- The IRS “accepts” your return 2-3 days after you submit it electronically.
- If you mail a paper return, expect an extra 3-4 weeks’ delay, as the IRS has to manually enter your information.
- Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website or the IRS2Go app for status updates.
Factors Affecting Your Refund Timing:
- The date you file your return.
- Whether you’re claiming credits like EITC or CTC.
- If you e-file or mail your return.
- Whether you owe any taxes to the government.
Why Hire a Professional?
If you’re unsure about the process or want more certainty, consider working with a tax professional like Fast Forward Accounting Solutions. We can help you get a more accurate refund estimate and ensure your return is filed correctly. We may also help you save on taxes or increase your refund. There are also apps available for Apple and Android devices that can track your refund status.
What if You Can’t File By April 15?
If you’re unable to file your taxes by April 15, you can apply for an extension using IRS Form 4868, which grants you until October 15, 2025, to submit your return. Tax professionals can assist with this process. However, keep in mind that if you owe taxes, you still need to make your payment by April 15 to avoid penalties. If you’re due a refund, you only need to file for the extension by the April 15 deadline. If you need help with this process, a tax professional or most DIY tax programs can assist you.
Source: CPA Practice Advisor
