Tax season always brings a mix of anxiety and hope, especially for those looking forward to their refunds. With many Americans depending on their tax refund for financial relief, it’s natural to wonder: when will the IRS send your money?
Here’s everything you need to know about how long it takes, what affects the timeline, and who can expect their refund between April 14 and April 20.
Timeline
The IRS typically processes most tax refunds within 10 to 21 days. That’s not a guaranteed window, but it’s the standard processing range, especially for those who file electronically and choose direct deposit. For others, the wait might be longer, depending on how you file and how you choose to receive your money.
Factors
Several things can speed up or slow down the refund process. Here’s what really matters:
- Filing method: Electronic returns are faster to process than paper ones.
- Refund delivery: Direct deposit is quicker than receiving a check in the mail.
- Tax credits claimed: Refunds with the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC) may face delays due to extra verification requirements.
So, if you’re expecting to cash in on those credits, don’t be surprised if your refund takes a bit longer to land.
Schedule
Let’s break it down even more with an estimated refund delivery chart, based on filing and delivery method:
| Filing Method | Refund Delivery Method | Estimated Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic | Direct Deposit | 1 to 3 weeks |
| Electronic | Paper Check | Around 4 weeks |
| Paper (Mail) | Direct Deposit | About 3 weeks |
| Paper (Mail) | Paper Check | Up to 8 weeks |
It’s clear from the table above—e-filing with direct deposit is the fastest way to get your refund. Filing by mail and asking for a check? That’s going to test your patience.
April
Now, here’s what you’re probably waiting to hear. If you filed your return electronically between March 24 and March 30 and selected direct deposit, your refund should arrive between April 14 and April 20.
If you filed during the first week of March and requested a check in the mail, that payment is also estimated to arrive on Monday, April 14.
Whether it’s a few hundred or a few thousand dollars, tax refunds offer a welcome cash boost. And for many, this is the time to catch up on bills, save, or splurge a little.
While the IRS processes millions of returns each week, the fastest way to avoid delays is still the same: file electronically, opt for direct deposit, and make sure everything on your return is accurate. If you’re still waiting, don’t worry—the money’s likely on the way.
FAQs
How long does the IRS take to issue refunds?
Typically 10 to 21 days for most electronic returns.
What delays a tax refund?
Claiming EITC or CTC can cause delays due to verification.
When will April 14–20 refunds arrive?
For March 24–30 e-filers with direct deposit.
Is direct deposit faster than checks?
Yes, it speeds up refund delivery by weeks.
How fast is e-filing with direct deposit?
Refunds usually arrive within 1 to 3 weeks.
