Millions of American taxpayers have already collected their refund payments from the IRS. Generally, direct deposits arrive in less than 21 days. So it could take between 8 to 10 days. However, it is best to prepare for the arrival of the tax refund within 21 days. Sometimes, there could be unexpected delays, and it could be a great disappointment.
The thing is, some taxpayers qualified for a June 16, 2025, deadline, while others had requested the IRS an extension of time to file. This extension allowed taxpayers to file by the October 15 deadline, but they had to pay their tax liability before the April 15 deadline ran out. What is more, some taxpayers were affected by a storm, wildfire, or hurricane. Thus, they may have also received extra time to file their 2024 tax returns in 2025.
Tax Refunds from the IRS may arrive from June 20-24
Whether you requested a direct deposit or a paper check, you may receive your tax refund payment from the IRS from June 17-24. It will basically depend on the day you filed your tax return.
- Taxpayers who filed a tax return on May 30 and requested direct deposit: Possible payday on June 20
- Taxpayers who filed a tax return on May 31 and requested direct deposit: Possible payday on June 21
- Taxpayers who filed a tax return on June 01 and requested direct deposit: Possible payday on June 22
- Taxpayers who filed a tax return on June 02 and requested direct deposit: Possible payday on June 23
- Taxpayers who filed a tax return on June 03 and requested direct deposit: Possible payday on June 24
The IRS reminds taxpayers that sometimes banks and other financial institutions may take longer than expected to process payments. Thus, it is normal to wait for up to 5 days to see the direct deposit in your bank account, even if the Agency has sent your money.
IRS paper checks from June 20-24
Paper returns are also a possibility for those taxpayers who are not keen on the Internet and are not good at all at technology. However, these refund payments may take longer. Generally, paper returns are paid within 6 to 8 weeks. Here’s the payment schedule for a 6-week wait.
- Paper return filed on May 8, 2025: payment may be sent on June 20
- Paper return filed on May 9, 2025: payment may be sent on June 21
- Paper return filed on May 10, 2025: payment may be sent on June 22
- Paper return filed on May 11, 2025: payment may be sent on June 23
- Paper return filed on May 12, 2025: IRS payment may be sent on June 24
Taxpayer who are not sure at all when the IRS will send them their money should use this online tool. The IRS offers the possibility to check your refund status for free on the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
Are there specific reasons why some taxpayers receive their refunds faster than others?
- Filing method: Taxpayers who file online and select direct deposit often receive their refunds faster than those who file on paper. E-filing allows the IRS to process returns more quickly.
- Claiming credits: If you file for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), your refund will be delayed until mid-February. This is because the IRS needs extra time to review your return, as required by law. The entire refund will be held, not just the credit portion.
- If a taxpayer owes federal taxes or other government debts, the IRS can hold back part or all of their refund. This includes debts like overdue child support or student loans. The IRS uses the refund to pay those debts before sending the rest to the taxpayer.
- Errors or incomplete information can cause delays. Tax returns with mistakes, missing details, or needing extra review will take longer to process. Filing an accurate and complete return helps avoid delays
- IRS processing backlogs – In some cases, the IRS may have a backlog in processing that can delay refunds for impacted taxpayers.
Source: https://www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/get-help/refunds/expediting-a-refund/