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Now that the 2024 tax filing deadline has passed, millions of Americans are asking: When will my tax refund arrive? If you’re eligible for a refund — especially the average refund of around $3,000 — here’s everything you need to know about the IRS refund schedule, eligibility, and how to track your payment.
IRS Refund Schedule: When Will You Get Paid?
Refund Schedule for Tax Returns Filed in May 2025
Filing Date | Filing Method | Refund Method | Expected Refund Date |
---|---|---|---|
May 1–15, 2025 | E-filing | Direct Deposit | May 22 – June 4, 2025 |
May 1–15, 2025 | E-filing | Check by Mail | May 29 – June 11, 2025 |
May 1–15, 2025 | Paper Filing | Any | June 26 – July 10, 2025 |
May 16–31, 2025 | E-filing | Direct Deposit | June 6 – June 19, 2025 |
May 16–31, 2025 | E-filing | Check by Mail | June 13 – June 26, 2025 |
May 16–31, 2025 | Paper Filing | Any | July 11 – July 25, 2025 |
Who Is Eligible for the $3000 Tax Refund?
Eligibility Criteria for 2025 IRS Tax Refund
- Filed your 2024 tax return before the deadline or with an extension
- Had income tax withheld from paychecks during the year
- Qualify for refundable tax credits like the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit
- Don’t have unpaid IRS, state taxes, child support, or student loans
Why Do You Get a Tax Refund?
Most taxpayers overpay taxes throughout the year via paycheck deductions. Once your return is filed, the IRS calculates your actual liability. If you’ve overpaid, you get a refund. Refunds also come from refundable tax credits such as:
- Child Tax Credit (up to $2,000 per child)
- Additional Child Tax Credit
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- Education Credits (American Opportunity Credit)
How to Track Your Refund Status
Use the official IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check the status of your refund.
- Go to irs.gov/refunds
- Enter your SSN or ITIN, filing status, and refund amount
- You’ll see one of three statuses:
- Return Received
- Refund Approved
- Refund Sent
Why Your IRS Refund May Be Delayed
- Filing a paper return instead of e-filing
- Errors or missing information on your return
- Refund being offset due to:
- Unpaid taxes
- Delinquent child support
- Defaulted student loans
Tip: If your return is clean and e-filed with direct deposit, expect your refund within 21 days.
How Much Are IRS Refunds in 2025?
As of May 2025, the average tax refund is approximately $2,939, up slightly from the previous year. However, many filers with children or low-to-moderate income may receive over $3,000.
Pro Tips to Get Your IRS Refund Faster
- E-file your tax return – it processes much faster than paper
- Choose direct deposit – avoid postal delays
- Double-check your return for errors before submitting
- Use the IRS Direct File program if eligible
Quick Summary: IRS $3000 Refund Guide
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Average Refund (2025) | $2,939 |
Fastest Way to File | E-filing with Direct Deposit |
Tracking Tool | Where’s My Refund? |
Common Delays | Paper filing, errors, outstanding debts |
Eligibility | Filed 2024 taxes, refundable credits, no offsets |