With the April 15, 2025 deadline fast approaching, over 70 million taxpayers in the U.S. have already filed their federal tax returns. While this figure is slightly 1.7% lower than last year’s total at this time, the good news is that the amount of refunds issued has gone up.
So far, the IRS has already refunded more than $162.99 billion, a 6.7% increase compared to 2024. Much of that—$160.91 billion—has been sent through direct deposit, the most preferred and fastest method for taxpayers.
Average Refunds Are Up in 2025
The average tax refund this year has increased as well. So far, taxpayers receiving their refunds via direct deposit have gotten an average of $3,330, which is 4.8% more than in 2024. The overall average refund across all methods stands at $3,271, showing a 5.2% increase.
At a time when inflation and the cost of living remain high, this extra money is a welcome relief for many households.
Haven’t Filed Yet? You Still Have Time
If you’re among those who haven’t filed yet, don’t panic—there’s still time. The IRS recommends filing electronically and choosing direct deposit to get your refund faster. To ensure your refund is processed without delays, you must:
- File your return electronically
- Request your refund via direct deposit
- Submit an error-free and complete return
If all these are done, the IRS says you can expect your refund within 21 days, though some cases may take a bit longer if additional checks are needed.
IRS Estimated Refund Schedule
The IRS has provided a timeline linking your filing date with the expected refund date (if filed electronically with direct deposit):
- March 10 → March 31
- March 11 → April 1
- March 12 → April 2
- March 13 → April 3
- March 14 → April 4
- March 15 → April 5
- March 16 → April 6
- March 17 → April 7
- March 18 → April 8
- 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
If you file today, your refund may still arrive within this estimated window, depending on how quickly the return is processed.
Track Your Refund Online
To track the status of your refund, use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool available on the IRS website. It’s updated daily and provides real-time updates on the progress of your refund.