As the April 15 tax deadline draws near, millions of Americans are rushing to file their returns and collect their much-anticipated refunds.
But in 2025, the IRS is expecting delays, especially for refunds submitted in late March through April. If you’re counting on that money, it’s essential to know why delays may happen and how to track your refund without stress.
Why IRS Refunds Are Slower in April 2025
Several factors are contributing to IRS refund delays in April 2025:
- High Volume of Filings: April is peak tax season. The IRS experiences a surge in submissions close to the deadline, which naturally extends processing times.
- Staffing Challenges: Ongoing workforce reductions and system backlogs from previous years are slowing response and processing speeds.
- Additional Review for Certain Credits: Taxpayers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC) may face added processing time due to increased verification protocols.
- Errors or Incomplete Returns: Mistakes or missing information lead to manual reviews, delaying the issuance of refunds.
How to Track Your Refund Step-by-Step
If you’re wondering where your money is, the IRS has tools to help you stay informed.
Use the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
You’ll need the following:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN)
- Filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, etc.)
- The exact refund amount shown on your return
Visit the tool via the IRS website to view one of these statuses:
| Refund Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Return Received | The IRS has received your return and is reviewing it |
| Refund Approved | Your refund has been processed and approved |
| Refund Sent | The IRS has issued your refund via direct deposit or check |
Try the IRS2Go Mobile App
This mobile app mirrors the features of the website tracker and allows you to track your refund directly from your phone.
Call the IRS Refund Hotline
You can call 1-800-829-1954 for automated updates using the same information required for the website.
Refund Timing Based on Filing Date
While the IRS aims to issue most refunds within 21 days of filing, here’s an estimated timeline for e-filers who chose direct deposit:
| Filing Date Range | Estimated Refund Date |
|---|---|
| March 24 – March 30 | April 12, 2025 |
| March 31 – April 6 | April 19, 2025 |
| April 7 – April 13 | April 26, 2025 |
| April 14 – April 20 | May 3, 2025 |
| April 21 – April 27 | May 10, 2025 |
Mailed returns may take 4–6 weeks longer.
Tips to Avoid Refund Delays
To make sure your refund arrives as quickly as possible:
- E-file and choose direct deposit
- Double-check for errors and missing details
- Avoid claiming incorrect credit amounts
- Ensure your banking information is current
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| IRS Refund Delays? | Yes – expected April through May 2025 |
| Standard Processing Time | 21 days (e-file with direct deposit) |
| Best Tracking Tool | “Where’s My Refund?” or IRS2Go App |
| Common Delay Causes | High volume, errors, EITC/CTC reviews |
| Hotline Number | 1-800-829-1954 |
While it’s frustrating to wait for your tax refund, knowing the reasons behind the delays and how to track your payment puts you in control. Filing early, submitting accurate information, and using digital tools like the IRS2Go app can help you minimize stress and maximize speed.
So if your refund hasn’t hit your account yet, don’t panic. Keep checking your status, and know that help is just a few clicks or taps away.
FAQs
Why is my refund taking longer than usual in 2025?
High volumes, staffing shortages, and credit-related reviews are extending refund processing times.
What’s the fastest way to get my refund?
E-filing with direct deposit remains the fastest and most secure method to receive your refund.
What should I do if I made an error on my return?
File an amended return using Form 1040-X and monitor the status of both your original and amended returns.