The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that most taxpayers in the U.S. can expect their 2025 tax refunds to arrive between April 9 and April 15. This timeline applies to both digital and paper tax filings, but there’s a big difference in how long each method takes to process.
While both groups may receive their refunds around the same time, those who filed by mail had to submit their returns much earlier than those who filed electronically.
Here’s what you need to know.
IRS Processing Times: Digital vs Paper Returns
The IRS prioritizes electronic tax returns because they are easier to process, have fewer errors, and can be reviewed quickly. In contrast, paper returns take much longer because they must be manually scanned and verified.
Refund Timelines by Filing Method:
| Filing Method | Submission Dates | Processing Time | Refund Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital (e-file) | March 19 to April 8, 2025 | Up to 21 days | April 9–15, 2025 |
| Paper (mail) | February 13 to March 20, 2025 | 4 to 8 weeks | April 9–15, 2025 |
Even though both formats receive refunds in the same week, paper filers had to send their returns as early as mid-February, while digital filers could wait until early April and still get their refund at the same time.
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Why the Difference in Refund Speeds?
The main reason for the delay in paper processing is that IRS staff must manually check every physical return. This takes more time and increases the chances of delays, especially if any information is missing or unclear.
For digital returns:
- The IRS says 90% of electronic filers get their refund within 21 days
- Errors are less common thanks to automatic checks
- The process is smoother, faster, and more secure
For paper returns:
- Refunds may take 28 to 56 days after the IRS receives the documents
- Some paper filers could experience delays up to 63 days, especially if they filed early in February
Filing Digitally Is the Smart Choice
Tax professionals recommend filing electronically for several good reasons:
- Faster refunds
- Lower chance of errors
- No risk of mail getting lost or delayed
Still, about 10% of taxpayers choose to file on paper. This may be due to tradition, lack of internet access, or because their tax situation is more complicated.
No matter how you file, double-check your return before submitting. Make sure:
- Bank account details are correct (for direct deposit)
- Your name, address, and Social Security number are accurate
- All income and deductions are reported properly
Even small mistakes can delay your refund by weeks.
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
After filing, you can track your refund using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” online tool. It helps you see when your return is received, processed, and when the money is sent.
Key Takeaways
- April 9–15, 2025 is the refund window for most taxpayers.
- Electronic filers (between March 19 and April 8) will likely wait just 3 weeks.
- Paper filers (between February 13 and March 20) could wait up to 8 weeks.
- Both methods result in refunds around the same time—but digital filers have more flexibility and less wait time.
- Filing electronically, accurately, and early is the best way to avoid delays.
