The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is currently processing federal tax refunds for 2025. Many taxpayers who have filed their returns are now awaiting these refunds, which will be delivered in June or later.
The way refunds are distributed depends on the taxpayer’s filing method and their previous payment choice. This year, there are some important updates regarding IRS operations, processing times, and potential delays.
When Will You Receive Your Tax Refund?
Tax refunds are typically processed after the April filing deadline. The distribution schedule depends on the date you filed your return and the method you chose for receiving the refund. Generally, electronic returns are processed more quickly than paper returns.
- Direct Deposit (Filed Electronically between May 1 and 15): If you filed electronically and selected direct deposit, you can expect to receive your refund between May 22 and June 4. This group of taxpayers generally receives their refunds first, as digital returns are processed faster.
- Postal Check (Filed Electronically between May 1 and 15): Taxpayers who filed electronically but chose to receive their refund by check may experience delays. Their refunds are expected to arrive between May 29 and June 11. This delay is caused by the additional time required for postal delivery.
- Paper Returns (Filed in Early May): Those who filed paper returns during the first half of May may face the longest delays. The IRS typically requires more time to manually process paper returns, and these refunds could take until July 10.
How Much Will You Get Back?
The average federal tax refund for 2025 is about $2,939, which is a slight increase compared to last year’s average refund of $2,869. However, the exact amount of your refund will vary based on factors like your income, the tax you paid throughout the year, and deductions you may qualify for.
Tax refunds represent the difference between the amount of tax you’ve already paid and the actual tax you owe. If you overpaid your taxes in 2024, you’re eligible for a refund. The amount will be determined by your specific tax circumstances.
How to Track Your Refund Status
To track the status of your tax refund, the IRS recommends using its “Where’s My Refund?“ tool. This digital service provides real-time updates on the receipt, approval, and status of your refund. You can access this tool online or through the IRS mobile app.
Will There Be Delays in Payments?
Due to budget constraints and a reduction in IRS staff, taxpayers might experience delays in receiving their refunds. The IRS recently laid off about 7,000 employees, which could lead to a longer processing time for both digital and paper returns. Historically, the IRS processes digital returns within 21 days, but this could extend to four to six weeks due to staffing reductions.
Paper returns will likely face even longer delays. If you filed a paper return, be prepared for a longer wait than usual.
Additional Tax Refunds in Georgia
In addition to federal refunds, residents of Georgia may be eligible for surplus tax refunds. These refunds, which range between $250 and $500, are being distributed by the Georgia Department of Revenue. The state has allocated nearly $1.2 billion for these refunds, which were approved by Governor Brian Kemp in April.
To qualify for these refunds, individuals must have been full residents of Georgia in both 2023 and 2024 and must have filed state tax returns for both years. The amount you receive will depend on your filing status and whether you owe any state taxes.
- Single or married individuals filing separately: Up to $250
- Heads of household: Up to $375
- Married couples filing jointly: Up to $500
These refunds are separate from the regular state and federal tax returns and are part of Georgia’s efforts to return a portion of the state’s surplus funds to taxpayers.