‘Where’s my refund’: What to know about IRS tax refund schedule for 2025

As tax season draws closer, many taxpayers are already anticipating their refunds and wondering when the funds will arrive. However, understanding the refund process, timelines, and available resources can help you navigate this year’s tax filing season with ease. 

According to northjersey.com, here are facts to guide you in receiving your refund: 

How to Track Your IRS Refund Status

The IRS offers an online tool called “Where’s My Refund” to help taxpayers check the status of their refund. To access it, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount as reported on your tax return.

Once entered, the system will display one of three statuses:

Return Received: Your return is being processed

Refund Approved: Your refund is being prepared for issuance

Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank or mailed as a check

When Will Your Refund Arrive?

If your return has been accepted and you see a “Refund Sent“ status online, your refund should be on its way. According to the IRS, direct deposits typically appear in your bank account within five days, while mailed paper checks can take several weeks to arrive.

Checking Your State Tax Refund Status

Many states provide online portals for tracking state income tax refunds. In New Jersey, for example, the Division of Taxation offers a refund status tool where taxpayers can check their refund roughly four weeks after filing electronically and up to 12 weeks after submitting a paper return. By entering your Social Security number and expected refund amount, you’ll receive an update on your return’s status.

How Much Will Your 2025 Tax Refund Be?

Refund amounts depend on how much tax was withheld from your paycheck throughout the year. Last year, the average federal tax refund exceeded $3,200, according to IRS data.

Filing Taxes for Free with IRS Direct File

The IRS has expanded Direct File, a free tax filing program for eligible taxpayers with simple returns. Initially piloted in select states, Direct File is now available in 25 states for the 2025 tax season. These include:

Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

The IRS estimates that 30 million taxpayers qualify for this free service in 2025. The program is designed for individuals with straightforward returns, and the Direct File site will help users determine their eligibility.

“Above all, our goal is to improve the experience of tax filing itself and help taxpayers meet their obligations quickly and easily,” said Danny Werfel, the former IRS commissioner, in a statement.

By taking advantage of these resources and understanding the refund process, taxpayers can ensure a smooth and efficient tax season.

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