If you recently filed your 2024 federal tax return, you’re likely wondering when your $3,000 IRS tax refund will arrive. With tax season well underway, the IRS is continuing to issue refunds on a weekly basis, prioritizing those who filed electronically and selected direct deposit.
This article covers the current IRS refund schedule, how late filers in disaster-affected areas are being treated, expected deposit dates, reasons for delays, and how to track your refund status effectively.
Who Qualifies for Late Filing in 2025?
Taxpayers in federally declared disaster zones—like Arkansas, impacted by storms and flooding—have been granted extended tax deadlines.
Example: Arkansas Extension
Residents and businesses in affected areas of Arkansas have until November 3, 2025, to file and pay federal taxes. If you recently filed under this extension, your refund may still be processing and could be deposited in late May or early June 2025.
IRS Direct Deposit Schedule: May 25–31
The IRS generally issues refunds within 21 days of receiving a complete and accurate e-filed return. If you filed around May 4, 2025, here are the estimated direct deposit dates:
| Filing Date | Expected Direct Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| May 4, 2025 | May 25–31, 2025 |
The actual posting time may vary depending on your bank or credit union. Even after the IRS issues your refund, banks may take up to 5 business days to finalize the deposit.
Latest IRS Refund Statistics – As of May 29, 2025
Here’s the latest update on 2024 tax season refunds:
- Over $180 billion in refunds have already been issued.
- About 80% of refunds are being paid through direct deposit.
- Average refund for e-filed returns: $2,939, slightly below the expected $3,000.
- Returns involving Child Tax Credit (CTC) or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) are experiencing 2–3 week delays due to identity verification and fraud prevention protocols.
Estimated June 2025 Deposit Dates
If you filed your tax return between May 10–17, 2025, use the table below to estimate your refund timeline:
| Filing Date | Expected Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| May 10, 2025 | June 1, 2025 |
| May 11, 2025 | June 2, 2025 |
| May 12, 2025 | June 3, 2025 |
| May 13, 2025 | June 4, 2025 |
| May 14, 2025 | June 5, 2025 |
| May 15–17, 2025 | June 6–8, 2025 |
Again, allow up to 5 business days after the “Refund Sent” status for the money to appear in your account.
How to Track Your IRS Refund
To check your refund status, use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. It updates daily and uses three stages:
- Return Received: IRS has accepted your return.
- Refund Approved: Your refund is being processed.
- Refund Sent: The IRS has issued your refund—expect it in your bank within 5 days if using direct deposit.
Ensure your filing was electronic and that you selected direct deposit for faster results.
Common Reasons for Refund Delays
Delays happen, even if you filed correctly. Here are some common causes:
| Reason | Impact |
|---|---|
| Errors in return | Delays processing due to corrections |
| Missing documentation | Refund held until forms or details are added |
| Claiming CTC or EITC | Extra scrutiny for fraud protection |
| Paper filing | Slower processing vs. electronic filing |
To reduce delays:
- E-file
- Choose direct deposit
- Double-check all information
- Submit all required documents
Fastest Way to Get Your Refund
The IRS confirms that the fastest route to your refund includes:
- E-Filing your return
- Selecting direct deposit
- Avoiding errors or incomplete sections
In some cases, refunds can be processed in as little as 8 business days.
If your $3,000 tax refund hasn’t arrived yet, don’t panic. Check your status using the IRS tools, confirm that your bank details are accurate, and allow time for processing—especially if you’re in a disaster-affected state or claimed refundable credits. The IRS refund schedule for 2025 remains active and continues issuing payments weekly.
FAQs
Why is my refund less than $3,000?
Your refund may be reduced due to tax withholdings, owed federal debt, or changes to credits claimed.
How often does the IRS issue refunds?
The IRS processes refunds weekly, though most are issued within 21 days of receiving an e-filed return.
Is my refund delayed if I claimed the Child Tax Credit?
Yes. Returns with CTC or EITC are often subject to extra verification, which can add 2–3 weeks to your refund time.