The 2025 IRS tax season is moving quickly, and millions of Americans have already filed their tax returns. But if you haven’t filed yet, you still have time to get your tax refund—and maybe even a stimulus check—by April. With the deadline of April 15 just around the corner, acting now can help you receive your money faster and avoid penalties.
Whether you’re hoping for a refund to cover everyday expenses or looking to claim a missed stimulus payment, here’s what you need to know before the tax season ends.
Refunds Are Bigger in 2025—Here’s Why
According to the IRS, more than 70 million people have already filed their 2024 returns as of March 14, 2025. Although this number is slightly lower (down 1.7% from last year), the average refund amount is actually higher.
So far, the IRS has issued over $162.99 billion in refunds—6.7% more than in 2024. Out of that amount, over $160.91 billion was paid through direct deposit, which continues to be the fastest and safest way to get your money.
Average Refund: $3,330
The average tax refund in 2025 is around $3,330, which is a 4.8% increase compared to last year. For many households, this money comes at the perfect time, helping to ease the impact of rising prices and inflation.
How to Get Your Refund Faster
The IRS has made it clear: the best way to get your tax refund quickly is to file electronically, request direct deposit, and ensure your return is complete and accurate.
To receive your refund in 21 days or less, follow these steps:
- File your tax return online using IRS-approved software or a tax professional.
- Select direct deposit as your refund method.
- Double-check your return to make sure all information is correct, especially your bank account number.
Returns with errors or missing info can take weeks longer to process, so accuracy matters.
IRS Refund Calendar: Key Dates for April 2025
The IRS has also shared an estimated refund schedule based on the date you file your return. Here’s a helpful summary:
| Filed Your Return On | Estimated Refund Date |
|---|---|
| March 19 | April 9 |
| March 20 | April 10 |
| March 21 | April 11 |
| March 22 | April 12 |
| March 23 | April 13 |
| March 24 | April 14 |
| March 25 | April 15 (final deadline) |
If you file today, you can still get your money by mid-April—as long as you file electronically and request direct deposit.
Haven’t Filed Yet? There’s Still Time
The tax filing deadline for most Americans is Monday, April 15, 2025. Filing after this date without an extension can lead to penalties or missed refunds, so don’t delay.
Even if you haven’t filed yet, there’s still time to:
- Get your refund before the end of April
- Claim missing stimulus money
- Avoid late-filing fees
What About Stimulus Checks?
If you missed out on a stimulus check during previous years, now may be your last chance to claim it by using the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing your return.
This is especially important if:
- Your income changed in 2020, 2021, or 2022
- You didn’t receive the full stimulus amount
- You haven’t filed taxes in recent years
By filing a 2024 tax return, you can claim any remaining stimulus money owed to you, as long as you qualify under IRS rules.