Kim
Each year, tax season sparks a wave of anticipation across the U.S., and 2025 is no different. For thousands of Americans, one of the most awaited moments is the arrival of their IRS tax refund.
This extra boost of cash can help cover debts, bills, savings goals, or just provide breathing room in tight budgets.
If you filed your return in late April, you could be among the many taxpayers receiving their refund between May 12 and May 18, 2025. Let’s break down everything you need to know to see if you’re on the list.
Who Will Get Their Refund Between May 12 and 18?
The IRS refund schedule favors early filers who choose electronic filing and direct deposit. Taxpayers who meet all the criteria below are expected to receive their deposits during the May 12–18 window:
- Filed electronically between April 21 and April 28, 2025.
- Chose direct deposit as their refund delivery method.
- Had no major errors or delays in their return.
- Did not claim certain credits that require additional verification (like EITC or ACTC).
If this sounds like your situation, your refund should hit your bank account in this timeframe.
IRS Refund Processing Timeframes
To better understand when your refund might arrive, here’s a helpful guide showing how long each filing method typically takes:
| Filing Type | Refund Delivery Method | Expected Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic filing | Direct deposit | 1–3 weeks |
| Electronic filing | Paper check | Up to 4 weeks |
| Paper return | Direct deposit | 3–4 weeks |
| Paper return | Paper check | Up to 8 weeks |
Direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to get your refund. Mailing a paper return and requesting a check will significantly delay your payment.
What Affects Your Refund Timing?
The IRS aims to process most refunds within 10 to 21 days of receiving your return. However, several factors can cause delays:
- Claiming certain tax credits: The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may add 2–3 weeks of processing time due to identity and income verification.
- Filing errors: Mistakes like mismatched Social Security numbers, incorrect banking info, or incomplete forms can cause your refund to be held for manual review.
- Paper returns: These take significantly longer to process than e-filed returns.
- Bank processing delays: Once the IRS issues the payment, the timing can vary based on your bank’s deposit schedule.
What’s the Average Refund in 2025?
So far in the 2025 tax season, the average federal tax refund is hovering around $2,945, slightly higher than the previous year. This increase is largely due to inflation-adjusted tax brackets and increased standard deductions.
For many families, this refund plays a crucial role in covering essentials or replenishing emergency savings.
How to Track Your Refund
If you’re expecting a refund between May 12 and 18, here are a few tools you can use to track your payment:
- Use the IRS refund tracking tool – You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount.
- Check your bank – Once the IRS processes and releases your refund, your bank may take up to 1–3 business days to post it.
- Review your filing date – If you filed after April 28, your refund may arrive after May 18, depending on how it was filed and what credits were claimed.
Tips to Ensure Timely Refunds
- Always e-file your return if possible.
- Double-check personal info and bank details.
- Avoid claiming credits you’re not eligible for, as this can trigger audits and delays.
- File early in the season to beat the rush and get processed sooner.
Tax season is full of deadlines and details, but one of the most rewarding moments comes when your IRS tax refund hits your bank account.
If you filed electronically and selected direct deposit in late April, you could be getting your refund between May 12 and 18, 2025.
Keep an eye on your bank account, use tracking tools, and remember: electronic filing with direct deposit remains the fastest route to your money. Whether you’re planning to save, spend, or invest your refund, now is the time to check your status and plan ahead.
FAQs
I filed electronically but chose a paper check—when will I get my refund?
If you filed electronically but selected a paper check, expect your refund to arrive about 4 weeks after filing, depending on mail delivery speed and IRS processing.
What if I filed on paper and still haven’t received anything?
Paper returns can take up to 8 weeks. If you haven’t received your refund after that timeframe, you may need to contact the IRS or check the refund tracker.
Can I still make changes after filing?
If you made an error on your tax return, you can file an amended return using Form 1040-X. Note that amended returns can take up to 16 weeks to process.