Most federal tax refunds are issued by the IRS within about 21 days (3 weeks) after your tax return has been accepted, especially if you e-file and choose direct deposit
. Here are the typical timelines based on how you file and receive your refund:
- E-file with direct deposit: 1 to 3 weeks (up to 21 days)
- E-file with a mailed check: about 1 month
- Paper (mailed) return with direct deposit: about 3 weeks
- Paper (mailed) return with a mailed check: 6 to 8 weeks (about 2 months)
Factors that can affect the timing include:
- How you filed (electronic filing is faster than mailing)
- When you filed (earlier filing usually means earlier processing)
- Whether you claimed certain credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), which can delay refunds due to extra IRS review
The IRS begins processing returns typically in late January (for 2025, it started January 27), so if you file early and electronically with direct deposit, you could receive your refund as early as mid-February
. You can check the status of your refund starting 24 hours after e-filing using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool or by calling their hotline
. In summary, if you e-file and opt for direct deposit, expect your federal tax refund within about 3 weeks after acceptance. Paper filing or requesting a mailed check will take longer, often up to 8 weeks.
