Sabrina
Each year, millions of Americans submit their tax returns and fulfill their obligations to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For those filing electronically in May and June 2025, the IRS has released an estimated refund payment timeline, helping taxpayers understand when they can expect their money.
Those who filed around May 4 and opted for direct deposit can expect their refunds to arrive between May 25 and May 31—assuming the return is error-free and doesn’t require additional processing or verification.
Estimated Refund Dates for May and June 2025
Refund timing depends not only on when you filed but also on how you filed and whether any credits are being verified. Returns free of errors or complications are typically processed within 21 days if filed electronically.
Below is a table showing the estimated IRS refund schedule based on filing dates:
Estimated IRS Refund Schedule (May–June 2025)
| Filing Dates | Direct Deposit Date | Paper Check Date |
|---|---|---|
| May 2 – May 8 | May 23, 2025 | May 30, 2025 |
| May 9 – May 15 | May 30, 2025 | June 6, 2025 |
| June 6 – June 12 | June 27, 2025 | July 4, 2025 |
Note: These dates are projections based on previous years and are not guaranteed. Additional reviews, such as those involving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), could delay the refund timeline.
Why Refunds Might Be Delayed
While the IRS aims to issue refunds quickly, several common reasons can cause delays:
- Errors or mismatches in your return (e.g., reported income, Social Security numbers, dependents)
- Claiming tax credits like EITC or ACTC, which often require extra review
- Random audits or identity verification
- Bank processing times, which can vary between institutions
Even if the IRS has sent your refund, your bank’s deposit policies could delay its appearance in your account.
Track Your Refund Using the IRS Tool
The IRS offers a convenient “Where’s My Refund?” tool to help taxpayers monitor the progress of their refunds. This tool shows three key stages:
- Return Received
- Refund Approved
- Refund Sent
To use it, you’ll need:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN)
- Your filing status
- Your exact refund amount
The system is updated once daily, so if your status isn’t available today, check again tomorrow. If more than 21 days pass without a refund update, the IRS may contact you via mail for further documentation.
How to Speed Up Your Tax Refund
Want your money faster? Follow these tips:
- File electronically instead of using paper forms
- Choose direct deposit instead of a paper check
The IRS reports that 90% of e-filed returns with direct deposit are processed in under three weeks, while paper filings can take up to six weeks.
“Filing electronically and opting for direct deposit significantly reduces your wait time and lowers the risk of mail theft.”
Rising Concerns Over Check Fraud
If you’re still opting for a paper refund check, beware. These are more vulnerable to theft. It’s been reported that around 4,000 to 5,000 IRS checks are stolen each year, often ending up on the dark web, totaling millions of dollars in losses.
In 2022 alone, FinCEN received over 680,000 reports of suspicious check-related activity—nearly double the number reported in 2021. These findings highlight the growing risk associated with paper refunds.
If you’re expecting a tax refund in May or June 2025, the IRS’s estimated schedule offers a helpful guide—but it’s not a guarantee. Electronic filing and direct deposit remain your best options for faster and safer refunds.
Always check your refund status through the official IRS tool, and avoid errors to prevent unnecessary delays. In an age of increasing check fraud, switching to digital options is more than convenient—it’s critical for your financial security.
FAQs
How long does it take to receive a refund after e-filing?
Most taxpayers who e-file and use direct deposit will receive their refund within 21 days, assuming there are no errors or review triggers.
What if my refund is delayed beyond 21 days?
If your refund hasn’t arrived in 21 days, check the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. If it shows no updates, you may receive a letter from the IRS requesting additional documentation.
Why is my paper check taking longer?
Paper checks are processed slower and are more susceptible to postal delays and fraud risks. Electronic payments are faster and more secure.