WASHINGTON, D.C. — As thousands of Americans wait for their 2024 tax refunds, the IRS has released updated timelines and tools for tracking payments, but some filers may face unexpected delays. The average refund this year stands at $3,116 — a new record — yet for many, the money hasn’t yet arrived.
According to the IRS, most electronic filers should receive their refund within 21 days. However, delays can occur due to flagged credits, identity verification issues, or the method of payment selected.
What’s Causing Delays in Refund Payments?
While the standard processing window remains three weeks, several key factors can prolong the wait:
- Special Credits: Returns that claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) often face extended processing. These credits are held temporarily to prevent fraud.
- Identity Discrepancies: Any mismatches involving Social Security Numbers or tax filing status can trigger a manual review.
- Outstanding Debts: Refunds may be intercepted to pay back taxes, child support, or other federal debts.
- Paper Filings or Check Payments: Choosing a mailed check or filing a paper return significantly extends processing time, with some checks taking up to six weeks or more.
- External Delays: Issues with the postal service or bank processing can create additional lags.
How to Check the Status of Your Refund
The IRS encourages taxpayers to use the free Where’s My Refund? tool, available at www.irs.gov. To access your information, you’ll need:
- Your Social Security Number (or ITIN),
- Your tax filing status (e.g., single, married filing jointly),
- The exact refund amount as reported on your return.
The tracker updates daily. If the tool does not yield results after 21 days from e-filing, the IRS suggests calling 800-829-1954 for individual assistance.
Refund Timelines Based on Filing Date
Here’s what filers can expect, based on when and how their returns were submitted:
| Filing Period | Direct Deposit ETA | Check by Mail ETA | Paper Return ETA |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 15 (Deadline) | June 6 – 19 | June 13 – 26 | Not applicable |
| May 1 – May 15 | May 22 – June 4 | May 29 – June 11 | July 10 |
| May 16 – May 31 | June 6 – 19 | June 13 – 26 | TBD (likely mid-July) |
(Source: IRS 2025 Refund Schedule)
Refund Trends and Taxpayer Concerns
The IRS reports that the average refund for 2025 is $3,116 — a 1% increase over 2024, continuing a trend of modest annual growth. The increase reflects adjustments for inflation and the end of pandemic-era credit expansions.
Despite higher refund amounts, some Americans say the waiting period adds financial stress. “It’s frustrating,” said Olivia Henderson, a teacher in Illinois who filed in mid-April. “I’ve been checking the IRS site every day for two weeks, and still no updates.”
Tax policy analysts note that while the IRS has improved automation, it still faces backlog issues — especially for paper returns — and the agency continues to struggle with staffing shortages.
What Should You Do If It’s Been More Than 21 Days?
Taxpayers who filed electronically and have not received their refund within 21 days should:
- Use the Where’s My Refund? tool
- Double-check for clerical errors in SSN or bank routing numbers
- Contact the IRS by phone if needed
- Avoid re-filing unless instructed by the IRS
Consumer advocates urge the IRS to be more transparent about delays and staffing shortages. “A more predictable system would help working-class families who rely on refunds for essentials like rent, bills, or school costs,” said Thomas Li, a policy fellow at the National Taxpayer Union.
