Federal Tax Refunds: Check Status, Processing Times, and Potential Delays

Processing Times:

* Most refunds are processed within 21 days of electronic filing (e-file) with direct deposit.
* Paper returns and claims for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) may take longer to process.
* E-file returns received by February 24, 2025, can see direct deposits as early as 10 days (March 7th).
* Paper refund checks typically arrive a week later (March 14th).

Checking Refund Status:

Step 1: Gather Information

* Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
* Filing Status
* Exact Refund Amount

Step 2: Visit IRS Websites or App

* Where's My Refund: https://www.irs.gov/refunds
* IRS2Go App

Step 3: Identify Status Updates

* Return Received: IRS has received your return.
* Refund Approved: Refund is pending.
* Refund Sent: Deposit made or check mailed.

Potential Delays:

Avoidable:

* Errors orincomplete returns
* Claiming EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit (refund issuance delayed until mid-February)
* Paper returns

Unavoidable:

* Identity theft or fraud

Additional Information:

* Expediting refunds is not possible.
* State income tax returns have separate tracking systems.
* Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1954 or 1-800-829-1040 for late or missing refunds after 21 days (e-file) or 6 weeks (paper).