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2mo ago

Average IRS Tax Refunds Down 32% as Filing Season Progresses

Taxpayers are seeing smaller refunds so far this year, but experts predict amounts may rise as more credits are processed.

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Refunds, so far this year, are far smaller than they were a year ago.
Stock image/file photo: Close up of income tax return refund section.
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Overview

  • The average tax refund for 2025 is currently $2,169, 32% lower than the $3,207 average at the same point in 2024.
  • Refund delays for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are contributing to the smaller average refund amounts.
  • Taxpayers who file electronically with direct deposit typically receive refunds within 21 days, while paper filings take longer, up to six to eight weeks.
  • The IRS advises taxpayers to use its 'Where's My Refund?' tool for status updates 24 hours after e-filing or four weeks after mailing a return.
  • Experts note that refunds may increase in coming weeks as more returns are processed, reflecting trends from previous years.