Filing your taxes might feel like the finish line, but the real victory? Getting that refund in your bank account. If you’ve already filed your 2024 tax return ahead of the April 15, 2025 deadline, you’re probably wondering, “When will I get my refund?” Luckily, the IRS has a handy tool that gives you answers fast — it’s called Where’s My Refund. Let’s walk through how it works and how you can speed up the process.
Refunds
After filing, the next thing on most taxpayers’ minds is their refund. And if you filed electronically, good news — you’re already on the fast track. E-filing is by far the quickest way to get your return processed and your money refunded.
So far this season, the IRS has refunded a whopping $179.469 billion. The average refund in 2025 is $3,221 — that’s up from $3,081 in 2024. Not bad, right?
Tracker
The IRS offers a simple online tool called Where’s My Refund, which makes it easy to track the progress of your refund. You don’t need to create an account or dig through paperwork. You just need three things:
- Your Social Security Number (or ITIN)
- Your filing status (like single or married filing jointly)
- The exact amount of your expected refund
Once you enter that info, the tool will tell you where your refund stands — whether it’s received, approved, or sent. It updates once per day, usually overnight, so you don’t need to check it obsessively.
Efile
Filing electronically is more than just convenient — it’s also smart. The IRS processes electronic returns much faster than paper ones. Plus, if you combine e-filing with direct deposit, you could get your refund in as little as 21 days.
Still waiting? Paper filers can expect to wait at least six to eight weeks. So, next year, consider ditching the paper forms altogether.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Filing Method | Estimated Refund Time |
|---|---|
| E-file + Direct Deposit | Around 21 days |
| E-file + Paper Check | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Paper File + Check | 6 to 8 weeks or longer |
Tips
Want your money sooner? Here are a few quick tips to avoid delays:
- Double-check your Social Security or Tax ID number
- Make sure your refund amount is entered exactly
- Choose direct deposit for faster delivery
- Don’t forget to select the right filing status
Mistakes on any of these can slow things down — or even cause your return to be rejected altogether.
Also, don’t forget your state refund! Many states have their own tracking tools similar to the IRS one. Check your state’s department of revenue website for details.
Numbers
Let’s talk about the big picture. According to the IRS, roughly 140 million individual tax returns are expected for 2025. With refunds averaging $3,221, that means many Americans are counting on that cash injection — whether it’s for bills, savings, or a little spring splurge.
And with over $179 billion already refunded, it’s safe to say the process is well underway.
Getting your refund isn’t just about filing — it’s about following up and staying informed. By using the IRS’s Where’s My Refund tool and filing electronically with direct deposit, you’ll be giving yourself the best chance at a fast payout.
It’s simple, smart, and gives you peace of mind while you wait. So if you haven’t already, go check that refund status — your money might be closer than you think.
FAQs
How long do refunds take in 2025?
Most electronic refunds arrive within 21 days.
Where do I track my tax refund?
Use the IRS ‘Where’s My Refund’ tool online.
What info do I need to track my refund?
You need your SSN, refund amount, and filing status.
What’s the average refund in 2025?
The average IRS refund is $3,221 this year.
Can I track my state tax refund too?
Yes, visit your state’s tax website for details.
