Tax season 2025 officially began on Monday, Jan. 27, when the IRS started accepting 2024 federal tax returns. The last day to file is April 15, 2025, but millions of Americans have already started and about half (51%) expect a refund this year, according to a Credit Karma survey.Here’s what you need to know about your tax refund, including when it should arrive, what might hold it up and how to move it along faster.Find a tax relief company that can help youTax refundsWhen are taxes due in 2025?When will I get my refund?Why is my refund taking so long?How to get your tax refund fasterTax refund FAQsWhen are taxes due in 2025?The deadline for most taxpayers to file a federal tax return is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.However, parts of the U.S. declared disaster areas by FEMA have been given extensions: The IRS is giving individuals and businesses impacted by the California wildfires until Oct. 15, 2025, for example, to file returns and make payments.When will I get my tax refund?If you file an electronic return and opt for direct deposit, the IRS says you can expect a refund within 21 days of filing, as long as there are no issues with your return, like inaccuracies or incomplete information.If you send your return by mail or file an amended return, it will take at least four weeks for your refund to be processed.To check your status, use the Where’s My Refund? tool on the IRS website. You’ll need to input your Social Security number, filing status and the refund amount listed on your return.Offers in this section are from affiliate partners and selected based on a combination of engagement, product relevance, compensation, and consistent availability.Why is my refund taking so long?According to the IRS, any number of issues could hold up a refund, including:A tax return with math errors or that is incomplete or unsigned.The IRS suspects identity theft or fraud.It’s challenging a credit you claimed, like the premium tax credit fora health plan purchased through the Health Care Marketplace.You still owe the IRS a previous year’s return.You’re being audited for a previous tax year.Your bank or credit union has not posted the refund.Offers in this section are from affiliate partners and selected based on a combination of engagement, product relevance, compensation, and consistent availability.If you’re claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit, those refunds can’t go out before mid-February, but the IRS says filers should receive their funds by March 3, 2025. (That’s if the return had no problems and they chose direct deposit.)Your refund may also be used to pay outstanding debts —including past-due federal or state taxes, child support or even federal student loans.If you dispute the IRS’s findings, you can contest the extra tax you’ve been assessed or file an amended return correcting any errors.Remember, a hold on your refund is not the same as an audit. Reputable tax professionals and tax-prep software will guarantee their work and help you navigate t
