As the 2025 tax season moves forward, millions of taxpayers are eagerly checking their refund status. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the average tax refund this year is approximately $2,165—an 18.6% increase from last year’s average of $1,741. If you filed electronically and selected direct deposit, you could receive your refund as early as this week. However, taxpayers who opted for paper filing may have to wait longer.
In this guide, we’ll break down who qualifies for early refunds, what factors affect processing times, and how to track your refund. Plus, we’ve included some expert tips to ensure you get your money as quickly as possible.
Key Tax Refund Insights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Refund Amount | $2,165 (an 18.6% increase from last year) |
| IRS Processing Goal | Most refunds issued within 21 days for e-filers |
| Factors Affecting Timing | Filing method, refund type, and tax credits |
| Fastest Refund Method | E-filing with direct deposit (1-3 weeks) |
| Slowest Refund Method | Paper filing with a paper check (6-8 weeks) |
| Tax Credits That May Delay | EITC, ACTC (held until mid-February) |
| Refund Tracking Tool | “Where’s My Refund?” on IRS.gov |
Who Will Receive Their Tax Refunds This Week?
Taxpayers who meet the following conditions are likely to see their refunds this week:
- Filed electronically before February 10, 2025
- Selected direct deposit as the refund method
- Submitted an error-free tax return
- Did not claim tax credits that require additional verification, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
Factors That Can Affect Your Refund Timing
1. Filing Method Matters
- E-filing with Direct Deposit: Refunds typically processed within 21 days.
- Paper Filing with Direct Deposit: Processing may take 4-6 weeks.
- Paper Filing with Paper Check: Expect 6-8 weeks for processing and mail delivery.
2. Refund Delivery Method
- Direct deposit is the quickest and most secure way to receive your refund.
- Paper checks take longer due to printing and mail processing times.
- Prepaid debit cards may be an option for certain filers, but check with your financial institution.
3. Tax Credits That May Delay Your Refund
- EITC and ACTC refunds are legally held until at least mid-February to prevent fraud.
- Other tax credits requiring additional review can also slow down processing.
4. Accuracy of Your Return
- If your tax return contains errors, missing information, or discrepancies, the IRS may manually review it, causing delays.
- Double-check your Social Security number, bank details, and income information before filing.
5. Fraud Prevention and Identity Verification
- If the IRS flags your return for identity verification, you may receive a 5071C letter.
- You’ll need to confirm your identity before the IRS processes your refund.
How to Track Your Refund Status
The IRS provides a real-time refund tracker called “Where’s My Refund?” on IRS.gov.
Steps to Check Your Refund Status:
- Visit the Where’s My Refund? page.
- Enter:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
- Your filing status (Single, Married, etc.)
- Your exact refund amount from your return
- Click “Submit” to check your status.
Refund Status Updates:
- “Return Received” – The IRS has your return and is processing it.
- “Refund Approved” – Your refund has been processed and is on its way.
- “Refund Sent” – Your refund has been deposited or mailed.
🚨 Pro Tip: If your refund is delayed beyond 21 days, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
FAQs on $2,165 Average Tax Refunds
1. When should I expect my refund if I filed after February 15?
- If you filed after February 15, expect your refund within 21 days for e-filed returns and 4-8 weeks for paper returns.
2. Will my refund be delayed if I claim the Child Tax Credit?
- Yes. Refunds that include the Child Tax Credit (CTC) or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) are held until mid-February for fraud prevention.
3. How can I get my refund faster?
- File electronically
- Choose direct deposit
- Double-check for accuracy to avoid IRS processing delays
4. Can I split my refund into multiple accounts?
- Yes! Use Form 8888 to split your refund into up to three different bank accounts.
5. Why is my refund lower than expected?
- The IRS may adjust your refund due to:
- Errors or miscalculations on your tax return
- Unpaid debts (student loans, child support, tax offsets)
- IRS corrections based on updated tax laws
6. Can I get my refund early using a tax advance loan?
- Some tax preparers offer refund advance loans, but they often come with fees and interest. Use them wisely!
7. What happens if I don’t receive my refund?
- If your refund is missing, check your IRS account online or call 1-800-829-1040.
Final Thoughts
The IRS is issuing larger refunds this year, with an average payout of $2,165. While many taxpayers will receive their refunds this week, processing times vary based on filing method, claimed credits, and accuracy of the return. To ensure a fast refund, file electronically, choose direct deposit, and double-check your return before submitting.
If you’re still waiting for your refund, don’t panic—use the Where’s My Refund? tool for real-time updates. Happy tax season!