If you’ve been checking your bank account non-stop since Tax Day, this might be the good news you’ve been waiting for. The IRS has started issuing tax refunds across the country, offering some welcome relief for many households — just in time to cover rent, pay off debt, or maybe even book a short getaway.
Average Refund in 2024: How Much Are People Getting?
According to official IRS data, the average tax refund this year is $2,939. That’s a small increase from last year’s average of $2,869. So far, the IRS has paid out over $274.9 billion in refunds — a 2% jump compared to last year.
Early filers are already seeing that money hit their accounts, and if you submitted your return on time and used direct deposit, your refund could be arriving any day now.
When Will My Tax Refund Arrive?
The speed of your refund depends on how you filed your tax return. Here’s a quick look at the typical IRS refund timeline:
Filing Method Estimated Refund Time
E-file + Direct Deposit 1 to 3 weeks
E-file + Paper Check Around 4 weeks
Paper File + Direct Deposit 3 to 6 weeks
Paper File + Paper Check Up to 8 weeks (or longer)
If you’re not sure where your refund is, you can use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website. It updates daily and you’ll need:
Your Social Security Number
Filing status
Exact refund amount
Why Refunds Are Moving Faster This Year
The IRS is processing returns more efficiently this year, especially after years of delays caused by the pandemic and staff shortages. In recent years, the IRS lost a significant number of workers, including auditors. However, they’ve since made improvements, especially with electronic returns.
That said, issues still exist, particularly in regional IRS offices. These delays tend to affect people who:
Filed paper returns
Filed close to the deadline
Claimed unusual credits or deductions
If you e-filed your return in early April and opted for direct deposit — and didn’t claim anything unusual — your refund is probably already on the way.
Tips to Get Your Refund Faster Next Year
If your refund felt delayed this year, a little planning can help you get your money faster next time. Here’s how:
File early: The IRS usually opens filing in late January. Don’t wait until April.
E-file: Use the IRS Free File system or trusted tax software.
Choose direct deposit: And double-check your bank info.
Stay organized: Create a folder (physical or digital) labeled “2025 Taxes” and save all tax documents throughout the year.
Track deductions easily: Use one card or account for deductible purchases.
Snap photos of receipts: Thermal paper fades — photos won’t.
By mid-January next year, you’ll be ready to file while others are just starting.
Getting a tax refund isn’t like winning the lottery, but with high prices, rising interest rates, and expensive groceries, even a few thousand dollars can make a real difference. Whether you’re using your refund to pay bills, add to savings, or just treat yourself, it’s your money—and it’s finally on the way.
So check your bank account, your email, and even your spam folder. That long-awaited IRS deposit could be just around the corner.
FAQs
How much is the average IRS refund in 2024?
The average refund this year is $2,939, slightly higher than last year’s average of $2,869.
When will I receive my IRS refund if I filed electronically?
If you e-filed and chose direct deposit, expect your refund within 1 to 3 weeks.
How can I track my tax refund?
Use the ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool on the IRS website with your SSN, filing status, and expected refund amount.
Why is my tax refund delayed?
Delays happen due to paper filing, claiming unusual credits, or IRS backlogs in regional offices.
How can I get my refund faster next year?
File early, e-file, use direct deposit, and stay organized throughout the year to avoid delays.
