Where's my tax refund?

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The 2025 tax season has begun, and with it, the recurring question: Where's my tax refund?

The IRS opened accepting returns on January 27 and expects to process more than 140 million forms by April 15. In this guide, we explain how to track your refund, take advantage of free options, and understand the IRS' challenges this year.

When Will I Receive My Refund?

If you have already filed your return or are about to do so, the IRS offers an online tool called “Where is my refund?” tool, which allows you to track the progress of your 2024 return. According to the IRS, your refund status will be available approximately 24 hours after you e-file your return. To use the tool, you'll need the exact dollar amount of your refund, as shown on your form.

The tax refund process has three stages: receipt and processing, refund approval with an estimated issue date, and confirmation of submission. In most cases, the IRS states that refunds are issued within 21 days of filing, especially if you choose direct deposit and electronic filing. However, those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit may experience delays, as the IRS can only issue those refunds after mid-February, as required by the PATH Act of 2015.

Free Filing: More Options for 2025

This year, the program Direct File The IRS's online tax return system, which allows users to file their taxes online for free, has expanded to 25 states following a successful pilot program in 2024. The system is aimed at people with simple returns, such as wage income under $14,200,000, and does not support self-employment or rental income.

Check your eligibility at the official IRS website.

For more updates, keep reading. More Latin.

Fountain: NPR