The 2025 tax season has begun, and millions of US taxpayers are waiting for their federal or state tax refunds. Some have already filed their tax returns, while others are still preparing. But one thing is common to all — they want to know when and how they will receive their refund.
Like every year, this time too the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) and state tax agencies have provided online tools so that taxpayers can track the status of their refund. Still, refunds can be delayed due to processing delays, changes in tax rules, and common mistakes.
In this article, we will know —
- How to check tax refund status
- Reasons for refund delay
- Ways to get a refund quickly
- And what to do in case of delay
Why is it important to understand the tax refund process?
When you file a tax return, the IRS reviews the income, deductions, and tax credits you reported. If you paid more taxes in a year or are eligible for certain refundable tax credits (such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit), you get a refund.
How quickly you get your refund depends on
- How you filed your taxes – e-file or paper filing
- How did you ask for a refund – direct deposit or paper check?
- What tax credits you claimed
- Whether your filing made any mistakes or needs corrections
How to track your tax refund in 2025?
1. IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool
This is the fastest and most reliable way to check your federal refund on the IRS website.
- For e-file returns: Status is updated within 24 hours.
- For paper returns: Status is updated after 4 weeks.
2. IRS2Go Mobile App
- Available on both iOS and Android platforms, this app lets you check your refund status anytime, anywhere.
3. Call the IRS Refund Helpline
- If it’s been more than 21 days since you filed your return (E-file) or 6 weeks (Paper filing), you can call 1-800-829-1954.
How to Check Your State Tax Refund?
Each state has its own tax agency and its own refund tracking tools. Tools for some major states:
- California: FTB Refund Tracker
- New York: NY State Refund Tracker
- Illinois: Illinois Refund Tracker
- Texas and Florida: No state income tax
Why are refunds delayed?
1. Incorrect or incomplete information
- Incorrect Social Security Number
- Name mismatch
- Math error in income or deductions
2. Claiming special tax credits
- The EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) and ACTC (Additional Child Tax Credit) are subject to special scrutiny, which can delay refunds until late February.
3. Paper filing
- Processing paper returns can take 6–8 weeks or longer.
4. IRS processing delays
- Backlogs from previous years have not been cleared yet.
- Unstuffing and lack of resources are also a factor.
5. Identity verification
- If your filing is flagged as potential identity theft, the IRS will require identity verification.
Easy ways to get a quick refund
- E-file: Electronic filing is much faster than paper filing.
- Choose Direct Deposit: Paper checks are delayed and prone to fraud.
- Double-check information: Fill in everything correctly – SSN, income, deductions.
- File early: If you file early, processing will be faster.
Having trouble? Do this
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| More than 21 days passed? | Check “Where’s My Refund?” on the IRS website |
| Claimed EITC/ACTC? | Delay is possible until the end of February |
| IRS requested additional information? | Respond promptly to avoid further delay |
| Bank rejected Direct Deposit? | Correct the error and wait for a paper check |
| Refund amount is lower than expected? | IRS may have adjusted it for student loans, taxes, or child support |
Estimated refund amount in 2025
According to the initial report of the IRS, the average refund amount this year is being estimated to be around $3,453. This amount depends on your tax situation, income and tax credits claimed.
Conclusion: Be informed, be alert
The 2025 tax season can be a golden opportunity for you if you file taxes on time and correctly. The IRS and state tax agencies are there to help you, but you also have to be vigilant on your part.
If you have not filed taxes yet, do not delay. And if you have, then definitely check the status of your refund using the methods given above. By taking timely action, you can not only avoid delays but also get your money quickly.
FAQs
Q. How can I check my federal tax refund status?
A. You can check it using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or the IRS2Go mobile app.
Q. How long does it take to get a refund after e-filing?
A. Most e-filed refunds are issued within 21 days.
Q. Why is my refund delayed?
A. Common reasons include errors, tax credit claims (like EITC/ACTC), or IRS processing backlogs.
Q. What if my bank rejects the direct deposit?
A. The IRS will mail a paper check to your registered address.
Q. Can my refund be reduced?
A. Yes, the IRS can reduce it to cover debts like unpaid taxes, student loans, or child support.