Many people in the United States are still waiting for their IRS tax refund, even though the filing deadline passed on April 15. For thousands of taxpayers, especially low-to-middle income households, this refund is more than just a return—it’s essential financial support. It helps pay off debts, cover daily expenses, or even boost savings.
If you’re still waiting for your refund, you’re not alone—and there are clear reasons behind the delay.
How Long Does It Usually Take to Get an IRS Refund?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) normally sends out refunds between 10 and 21 days after receiving your tax return. However, this timeframe can change based on a few key factors:
When you filed your return
Whether you filed electronically or by mail
If you chose direct deposit or paper check
Whether you claimed special tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Why Some Refunds Are Delayed
One of the biggest causes of delay is when taxpayers apply for credits like the EITC or CTC. These claims require extra verification steps to avoid fraud, which adds more processing time. The IRS has to be extra careful with these payments, so if you claimed either credit, your refund may take longer.
Refunds Scheduled Between May 26 and May 31
If you filed your return electronically between May 4 and May 11 and selected direct deposit, your refund is likely to arrive between May 26 and May 31.
However, if you:
Filed during the second week of May
Chose to receive a paper check
Then your refund is expected around June 16.
Best Way to Get Your Refund Faster
The IRS recommends that taxpayers:
File electronically
Choose direct deposit
This combination is the fastest and most reliable way to receive your refund. In contrast, sending a paper return and requesting a paper check can delay your refund by several weeks or even months.
Estimated IRS Refund Schedule
Here’s a general breakdown of how long your refund might take, based on how you filed and how you chose to receive the money:
Filing & Delivery Method Estimated Wait Time
Electronic filing + Direct deposit 1 to 3 weeks
Electronic filing + Paper check About 1 month
Paper filing + Direct deposit Around 3 weeks
Paper filing + Paper check Up to 2 months
How to Track Your Refund
The “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS official website is the best way to check the status of your tax return. This tool provides up-to-date information on when you can expect your payment, so you don’t have to keep guessing or calling support lines.
If you’re still waiting for your IRS refund, know that you’re not alone—and there are understandable reasons behind the delay. Filing method, refund delivery choice, and specific tax credits all impact when you’ll receive your money.
Those who filed electronically and selected direct deposit will get their refunds sooner, while paper filers and check recipients may need to wait longer. Use the IRS tracking tool to stay updated and plan your finances accordingly. The refund is coming—it just may take a little more time.
FAQs
Why is my IRS refund delayed in 2024?
Refunds can be delayed due to filing method, delivery option, or claiming credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC).
When will I receive my IRS refund if I filed electronically with direct deposit?
If you filed between May 4 and May 11 and selected direct deposit, your refund is likely to arrive between May 26 and May 31.
How can I check the status of my IRS refund?
Use the ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool on the IRS website. It provides the most accurate update on your refund status.
Does choosing a paper check slow down my refund?
Yes. Refunds sent via paper checks take longer to process than direct deposit. Expect a delay of several weeks.
What’s the fastest way to get my IRS refund?
The fastest way is to file your tax return electronically and choose direct deposit for receiving your refund.
