In 2025, the IRS expects to issue most federal tax refunds within 21 days for electronically filed returns that utilize direct deposit, provided there are no issues with the return. For paper-filed returns, refunds typically take 6 to 8 weeks or longer.
For your 2025 tax refund, expect under 21 days if you e-file with direct deposit, but 6-8 weeks or more for paper returns or if your return needs extra review (errors, fraud, claiming EITC/ACTC). The fastest method is e-filing with direct deposit, while mailed returns take significantly longer, and some returns with credits like EITC/ACTC have specific processing dates (around March 3rd).
For 2025 tax refunds (filed in 2026), expect e-filed returns with direct deposit in about 21 days, while paper returns take 4-8 weeks, though EITC/ACTC refunds are delayed until mid-February by law. Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool for the most accurate status, needing your SSN, filing status, and refund amount.
Minnesota's state income tax refunds are generally fast, often arriving in about a week (7 days) for e-filed returns with direct deposit, though sometimes as quickly as a few days; however, paper returns or those needing extra review can take several weeks or longer, with delays possible due to errors, identity verification, or scams, so checking the "Where's My Refund?" tool on the MN Dept of Revenue site is best for status updates.
Arizona state tax refund times vary, with e-filers often getting refunds in a couple of weeks via direct deposit, while paper returns can take 8 to 10 weeks or more due to processing and fraud checks; e-filing with direct deposit is the fastest, but all returns face review, so check the Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) website at AZTaxes.gov using your Social Security number, filing status, and zip code for status updates.
The IRS typically processes tax refunds and executes direct deposit transactions within 21 days after accepting your tax return. It's common for the IRS to issue them on business days, from Monday through Friday. Learn how to speak to someone at IRS.
Arizona's average tax refund is $3,200.
Federal tax refunds are usually issued within 21 days if you e-file with direct deposit, but paper returns and claiming certain credits (like EITC/ACTC) can cause delays, with EITC/ACTC refunds held until mid-February. You can track your refund using the IRS's "Where's My Refund?" tool on their website or app, needing your SSN, filing status, and exact refund amount.
If you are waiting for a refund and want to know its status: Use our Where's My Refund? system. Call our automated phone system (available 24/7) at 651-296-4444 or 1-800-657-3676.
Generally, the amount of time is based on your filing date and you'll get your refund within 21 days after you e-file. (Paper filed returns can take much longer.) If you file before the IRS opens, you need to wait for the IRS open date (usually in late-January) before starting the 21-day clock.
The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2025 (returns filed in 2026). Most refunds will be issued within 21 days after the return has been accepted, according to the IRS. The IRS typically sends out refunds on a schedule.
Key Takeaways. If your tax return is missing required forms or is otherwise incomplete, it can delay your refund. Errors in your tax return calculations can cause delays as the IRS may need to correct them. A mismatch between your Social Security Number and the records can significantly delay your refund.
tool on IRS.gov. Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of the taxpayer's e-filed return. The tool also provides a personalized refund date after the return is processed and a refund is approved.
You likely received $1400 from the IRS today as a supplemental payment for the 2021 Economic Impact Payment (EIP3), specifically the Recovery Rebate Credit, for people who missed it by not claiming it or leaving it blank on their 2021 tax return. These are "plus-up" payments for those eligible for the third stimulus but didn't get the full amount, often for dependents or due to income changes, with a deadline to claim it by April 2025 by filing a 2021 return if you hadn't already.
Most refunds issued in less than 21 days: EITC refunds for many available by March 3.
By choosing the 5 days early refund delivery offered by TurboTax, you can receive your federal refund 5 days before the IRS would have delivered it. The IRS usually sends federal refunds within 21 days for most customers.
The earliest you can get your tax refund is within 21 days of filing electronically with direct deposit, but for those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), the IRS must hold refunds until mid-February, making early March the earliest typical arrival for those specific filers. Combining e-filing with direct deposit is the fastest method, while paper returns take six weeks or more, and mailing checks adds significant delay.
Acceptance simply confirms that the return passed the IRS's initial checks, but it does not mean the return has been fully reviewed or that a refund has been approved. Understanding how the IRS moves from acceptance to approval can make the waiting period feel a bit clearer and more predictable.
Credit card refunds allow you to get money back for a purchase made with your credit card, usually in the form of a credit to your account. Refunds can take five to 14 business days to process and may not be given in cash.
Average tax refund by state, tax year 2022
A choropleth map of the U.S. showing the average tax refund by state for tax year 2022 among filers receiving a refund. Florida leads at about $3.9k, while Maine trails at about $2.7k.