As the summer season kicks off, many Americans are still receiving their long-awaited tax refunds—even though the 2024 tax filing deadline passed back in April. With schools closing and families heading out for vacation, some households may be counting on these refunds to help cover seasonal expenses. If you’re still waiting, or wondering if you’re due a refund, here’s what to know about the IRS’s current refund schedule and processing delays.
IRS Tax Refund Schedule: What to Expect
The timing of your tax refund depends heavily on how you filed your return and how you opted to receive your payment. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Filing Method | Estimated Refund Timeline |
|---|---|
| E-filing + Direct Deposit | Up to 21 days |
| E-filing + Mailed Check | 2–4 weeks |
| Paper filing (mailed) | 4 weeks or more |
| Amended returns | 6–8 weeks or longer |
E-filing is still the fastest way to receive a refund, especially if you opted for direct deposit. However, delays can occur—particularly for returns that involve certain tax credits or require corrections.
Delays Linked to Tax Credits and Reviews
If your tax return includes credits such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), expect a longer wait. These credits often require extra verification, and any inconsistencies or errors in your filing could result in additional reviews by the IRS.
Moreover, amended returns or incomplete documentation can push your refund beyond the standard processing window. Make sure to double-check your tax return for accuracy to avoid hold-ups in future filings.
Who’s Getting a Refund This Week?
Between June 16 and June 23, the IRS is expected to issue refunds to taxpayers who filed:
- Between May 1 and May 15
- Between May 16 and May 31
However, these timelines only apply if you e-filed and requested your refund via:
- Direct deposit
- Paper check by mail
If you filed late and didn’t request an extension, be aware that penalties for late filing may be deducted from your refund.
Refund Delays Linked to Federal Job Cuts
Some refund delays may also be attributed to internal staffing reductions at the IRS. These cuts are the result of recommendations made by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has pushed federal agencies to trim down budgets. As part of a larger initiative to reduce federal spending by $150 billion—down from a previously projected $2 trillion—fewer IRS personnel are now available to process tax returns, contributing to slower turnaround times.
How Much Can You Expect from a Tax Refund?
According to IRS data released on May 9, the average tax refund in 2024 is $2,939. However, it’s essential to treat this number cautiously. The average is skewed by high-income filers who tend to receive larger refunds due to itemized deductions, business losses, or tax credits not available to the average filer.
Instead of comparing your refund to others, use the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool for real-time updates on your status. Refunds are highly personalized based on income, withholdings, dependents, and eligibility for credits.
While the 2024 tax season is officially over, some taxpayers are still waiting for their refunds, especially those who filed closer to or after the deadline. E-filing and opting for direct deposit remain the fastest options, but delays can occur due to IRS staffing changes, credit-related reviews, or simple mistakes in your return. Use the IRS tools provided to track your refund and ensure all your information is accurate to prevent future delays.
FAQs
Can I still get a refund if I filed my taxes late?
Yes, but you may face penalties that reduce your refund amount—unless you filed for an extension before the April deadline.
Why is my refund delayed even though I filed early?
Delays can happen if your return requires additional review, includes certain tax credits, or was impacted by IRS staffing reductions.
What if I mailed my return instead of e-filing?
Mailed returns take longer to process—usually around 4 weeks or more—especially if corrections or additional documentation are needed.
Is the $2,939 average refund what I’ll get?
Not necessarily. This average includes high-income filers, so your refund may be smaller or larger depending on your specific tax profile.